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Lakers Twitter Explodes As DeMar DeRozan Drops Major Free Agency Hint

Published 07/26/2021, 2:37 PM EDT

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USA Today via Reuters

The NBA fraternity now heads into what many believe is the most entertaining phase of the NBA cycle. With the NBA Draft day on July 29, and Free Agency on August 2nd, the clock will soon begin ticking.  And with the Los Angeles Lakers right on que to enter the thick of the ongoing rumors for veteran stars like Kyle Lowry, DeMar DeRozan and others alike, Laker Nation has gone into a frenzy.

Rob Pelinka and the franchise will be in their final planning stages, as they aim to back up their claims of making a big splash this free agency. Pelinka is no rookie in this position, considering his past of first trading L.A’s future for Anthony Davis followed by putting a championship roster on the fly. However, the front office must tread carefully, as their apparent “upgrades” last season turned out a total bust!

USA Today via Reuters

It’s no secret that the Lakers top target this season will be to sign an 2-time All NBA veteran guard like either Chris Paul, Kyle Lowry, DeMar DeRozan, or however unlikely, Spencer Dinwiddie.

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And while there have been no signs of the interest being reciprocated from their respective camps, FA DeRozan may have been dropping subtle hints for Pelinka to pounce on.

DeMar DeRozan addresses his Free Agency aspirations

DeRozan, in an interview on Club Shay Shay hosted by NFL legend Shannon Sharpe, opened up about his plans for the offseason. The all-star said – “It was an important summer for me going into free agency. I wanted to keep that passion and drive going into the summer, take no time off.” 

When asked what he was looking for in a signing that would see him leave San Antonio, DeMar said – “It’s all about winning at this point. Going into my 13th season, seeing all these guys competing for a championship.” 

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Lastly, on what was more important to the veteran, a pay hike or a championship, DeRozan said – “You try to balance it as best you can. You gotta weigh out the opportunity of winning championships, especially with the career I’ve had, Ive been fortunate to make a lot of money. But at this point, the ultimate goal is to always compete for a championship.”

DeRozan’s interview has taken Laker Nation by storm

While it isn’t a sure shot answer to whether he will take a pay cut to return home to Los Angeles, Laker fans seem least concerned! In a proposal that saw mixed reactions, Laker fans wasted no time in taking to Twitter to give their verdict on a potential deal involving DeRozan.

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However, DeRozan provides little to no help in addressing the Lakers’ Achilles heel, which was the 3pt shooting, in a league where knocking down shots is crucial.

USA Today via Reuters

But, given their issues with cap-space and resources on the roster, could a Kuzma/KCP for DeRozan be the best option for Rob Pelinka this offseason?

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Written by:

Nikhil Naik

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Nikhil Naik is an NBA writer at EssentialySports. Having completed his bachelor's degree in Hospitality, he has worked with the Indian Hotels Company Limited, at the Taj in Mumbai. Nikhil has been playing basketball since 2014.
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