New York Knicks: Pros, Cons of trading for DeMar DeRozan
By Allen Settle
Should the Knicks target DeMar DeRozan: the Pros
There are a lot of reasons to be excited at the prospect of DeRozan in a Knicks uniform. While his stock has taken a dip since his time with the Toronto Raptors, the former USC star is still a phenomenal scorer.
He is fresh off a 2020-2021 campaign in which he recorded 22.1 points per game, 3.6 assists, and 4.4 rebounds. While he lacks the three-point shooting ability that modern NBA teams crave, DeRozan is a master at the midrange game. That skillset, in combination with his raw athleticism and ability to attack the basket, makes him truly capable of getting his own shot against any defense.
DeRozan, age 31, is also several years younger than a player like Paul. This would allow him to be more than a single season boost.
After seeing their 23-year postseason streak come to a crashing end in 2020, it appears as though the Spurs are due for a rebuild. According to reports, the notion of trading for DeRozan appears more than a pipe dream. By all accounts, he is available for the right offer.
Considering the Thunder’s high asking price, it is also probable, that the Spurs’ star could be acquired at a comparably lower price. DeRozan has a player option that, if declined, could make him a free agent this offseason. If picked up, one would imagine the Spurs would be open to exchanging him for future assets before his deal expires after the 2021 season.
OKC is asking for multiple top assets. Talks with San Antonio would start with just one.