DeMar DeRozan, arguably this summer’s most sought-after free agent, has reportedly opted out of his contract for the 2016-17 season, per Chris Haynes of cleveland.com.
The move was expected, as DeRozan has the chance to get upwards of $25 million annually this summer if he signs a long-term max deal. Toronto is still going to be in play after reaching the Conference Finals for the first time in franchise history, and inking head coach Dwane Casey to a three-year extension. Along with the team’s success, DeRozan is coming off his best year as a pro and posted career-highs in points per game (23.5), assists per game (4.0), and three-point percentage (33.8%), on top of cementing himself as one of the league’s best slashing wingmen.
Related: Toronto inks Dwane Casey to three-year extension
Also expected is for the Los Angeles Lakers to get a lot of consideration from DeRozan, who’s California born and bred, and who also will have a ton of cap room this offseason. He grew up in Compton and attended USC, which isn’t far from the STAPLES Center.
