DeMar DeRozan Trade Rumors: Sacred Bond With San Antonio Legend Could Steal 6x All-Star Away from Heat, Kings

When there was talk about DeMar DeRozan’s homecoming, we had something else in mind. There was a possibility that he could return to his native California via the Lakers until the Miami Heat also was a possible landing spot. Then Sacramento entered the chat. And the trade rumor mill only got wilder with the possibility of his return to San Antonio. DeRozan played for the Spurs before coming to Chicago and they are reportedly interested in having him back. Only recently, DeRozan was talking about some bittersweet memories of his time in San Antonio and it indicated he wouldn’t be averse to reuniting with ‘Pops.’

According to reports, Miami can’t give Deebo what he’s looking for, though he was keen on going there, so he’s contemplating other offers. The Kings are negotiating a possible sign-and-trade with the Bulls for him as the Spurs have reportedly jumped into the foray. What the Spurs are offering is not immediately known, but the possibility of the 6x All-Star picking them over the Kings, and maybe the Lakers got higher for sentimental reasons.

Last month Deebo was on the 25/10 Show where he spoke about holding Spurs head coach, Gregg Popovich, in high regard. He went from coach to father figure for him around the time DeRozan’s father, Frank DeRozan passed away in February 2021. Frank used to be a regular at Raptors’ games when his son played there. While in San Antonio, DeRozan flew back to LA to see his ailing father often. When he found out he had passed, he contacted the Spurs GM about getting on a flight home right away.

After his talk with the GM, he had a visitor. “Ninety seconds later, I hear a knock at the door. It’s Pop. Pop sat in the room and cried with me for two hours. That just showed the person who he was.” Popovich apparently wouldn’t leave till Deebo was on his way to LA. It’s just one of the many Pop stories of his heartwarming connection with his players.

This has stuck with DeRozan even after he came to Chicago. For this reason, it’s speculated that DeRozan would prioritize playing for Pop again over seeking a bigger contract. It can’t be said immediately while everyone’s watching the Lakers for their next move since losing Klay Thompson to the Mavs. Recently he referred to his move from Toronto to San Antonio as an upheaval but now it’s possible he’d be glad to go back.

A new and improved Deebo could benefit the Spurs

DeRozan had played nine seasons with the Raptors when he was traded to the Spurs. He revealed on Dinners with DeMar, finding out he was being traded, “Knocked me to my f**king knees.” Along with his father’s prolonged illness, he was in a bad emotional and mental space.

He played 206 games for the Spurs, averaging 21.6 points, 6.2 assists and 5.3 rebounds in them. But more than his game, he became prominent for championing mental health during his three seasons there. From his talk, it appears he’s in a much better place than he was during his first stint.

Another difference Deebo could make is bringing in some veteran experience for a young team like Spurs. Plus, the combination of DeRozan and Wemby sounds too good to let go. It’s still up in the air. Who do you think could win the Deebo sweepstakes?

But before you go, be sure to check this video of Leonard Armato’s take on the deadly duo, Shaq and Kobe.