Bulls reportedly offered DeMar DeRozan 2-year deal worth $40 million per season

After the Chicago Bulls’ defeat to the Miami Heat in the NBA play-in tournament, it seems like the team is gearing up for a season of significant changes ahead.

But it seems like the team is really keen on keeping their top scorer, DeMar DeRozan, in their future plans. DeRozan, who is set to become a free agent, has received an offer for a two-year contract that could potentially earn him up to $40 million per season, as per reports from NBC Sports Chicago’s K.C. Johnson.

If that offer turns out to be true, it would represent a substantial increase for DeRozan, who previously earned $28.6 million in the last year of his three-year contract with the Bulls. The fact that Chicago is willing to pay him a salary that ranks among the top 25 in the NBA shows their strong desire to retain the experienced 15-year player. Despite approaching 35 years old next season, DeRozan is fresh off one of his most impressive seasons, averaging 24 points per game. While he is seeking a three-year deal in free agency due to the NBA’s over-38 rule, the Bulls’ higher annual salary offer might sway him to prioritize immediate compensation over contract length. DeRozan’s decision on returning to Chicago could hinge on his assessment of the team’s championship prospects.

DeRozan expressed his feelings to reporters, saying, “Ultimately, I despise losing. I detest letting opportunities slip away. … The next game I play will mark my 16th season. You come to understand that your personal window is closing.” Bulls’ VP of basketball operations, Arturas Karnisovas, addressed reporters on Saturday, indicating that changes are on the horizon following a disappointing season. He aims to retain DeRozan and continue with head coach Billy Donovan.

Re-signing DeRozan at that salary while steering clear of a luxury tax by exceeding the salary cap would probably necessitate trading Zach LaVine, who still has three years and $138 million left on his deal. According to Karnisovas, landing in the ninth spot in the Eastern Conference isn’t justification enough to incur a luxury tax.