The Miami Heat attempted to acquire DeMar DeRozan through a sign-and-trade this summer, but were unsuccessful. ESPN insider Bobby Marks has now disclosed where the deal fell through.
“They really wanted to bring in DeMar DeRozan,” Marks said on NBA Today. “They made a strong effort to acquire him, but unfortunately, nobody was interested in Duncan Robinson, with no offense intended. They only had one first-round pick to offer in a trade.”
Miami’s loss was Sacramento’s gain, as DeRozan ended up signing a three-year, $74 million deal with the Kings through a three-team sign-and-trade deal.
As part of the agreement, Sacramento traded Chris Duarte, two second-round picks, and cash considerations to Chicago, while sending Harrison Barnes and a 2031 pick swap to San Antonio.
It’s understandable why the Bulls weren’t keen on Robinson, as they are in a rebuilding phase focused on young talent. Additionally, Robinson is under a five-year, $90 million contract with two years remaining (although only $9.8 million of his $19.8 million salary is guaranteed for the 2025-26 season).
The Heat have been relatively quiet in the trade and free agency market this offseason, with DeRozan being one of the few prominent players still available.
The Compton native averaged 24 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists for the Bulls last season.
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