Why Westbrook’s Lakers Trade is Bad News for DeMar DeRozan

The NBA off season surely began with a bang. The Los Angeles Lakers signed All-Star guard, Russell Westbrook from the Washington Wizards. The rumours about this trade were in the air for a while, and now it is finally done.

However, another veteran guard who was a potential target for the Lakers was DeMar DeRozan. There were heavy links of the Spurs star signing with LA. But, the trade for Russell Westbrook crushed any chances of that.

Moreover, he could have been a real target as he was willing to take a pay cut to join them. However, a few interesting reports have emerged following the blockbuster trade.

DeMar DeRozan spoke with LeBron James to join the Lakers

Before Westbrook became a Laker, reports say that DeMar had a chat with the King. Although the details of the conversation are unknown, having a conversation is big news.

DeMar DeRozan held talks with LeBron James to join the Lakers before Russell Westbrook deal eliminated that option: https://t.co/G5hgZERwSB

— NBA Central (@TheNBACentral) July 30, 2021

Now, DeRozan had a phenomenal season averaging 21 points for the San Antonio Spurs. However, he was not in a competing situation. Likewise, he publicly put out his desire to compete for a championship, even if he had to take a pay cut.

Moreover, he hinted at a trade to the Lakers when he said that he could work with LeBron and Anthony Davis. However, now the trade is off the table. With the salary cap of the Lakers, they could afford only one star this season.

Lakers vs Spurs — Jan 1, 2021; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard DeMar DeRozan (10) calls for a timeout against Los Angeles Lakers guard Wesley Matthews (9) in the second half at the AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports

There will be questions now if DeRozan could fit better with the Lakers. Moreover, now being a free agent who prioritizes winning, he has to look for a suitable organization.

ALSO READ- ‘Thank you DC’: Russell Westbrook thanks Washington Wizards after trade to the Los Angeles Lakers

DeRozan to Dallas?

With his desire to compete, the 4 tie All-Star would be a perfect fit for the Mavericks. Playing alongside a young Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis, they can make for a dominating core.

Lakers' LeBron James vs Spurs — Dec 30, 2020; San Antonio, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) shoots around San Antonio Spurs guard DeMar DeRozan (10) in the second quarter at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports

If DeRozan does go with Dallas, it will allow Luka to take the breather he needs through the game. In addition, Dallas will have at least one of the 3 on the floor at all times. While DeRozan puts up 20 points, he can also space the floor and make important cuts.

With Luka’s game developing, he will need a guy who can create shots for him. That is where DeRozan fits in as he averages almost 7 assists per game. He has shown that he can perform at an All-Star level. DeRozan could be the missing piece for the Mavericks and help them compete for a championship.