NBA Rumors: Chicago Bulls Star Could Ask Out

The ugly secrets of the Chicago Bulls locker room have been creeping out the past few days, and while they continue to try to deal with their dysfunction, largely surrounding stars Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan, the latest report has one of those two potentially asking out if things don't move in a positive direction.

DeMar DeRozan could ask out this summer, per @ChrisBHaynes

(Via https://t.co/yiTXIFxEko) pic.twitter.com/MYGSgl1Dm2

— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) December 22, 2022

Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report writes: 

If matters don't improve this season, rivals executives believe it could lead star guard DeMar DeRozan to request to be moved in the offseason, league sources tell Bleacher Report. 

DeRozan, a 5-time All-Star, came to the Bulls last season on a 3-year, $82M contract. He responded with a career-high 27.9 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.9 assists. 

And while he's still performing at near the same levels this season (25.9 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.7 assists), things have gone terribly wrong with the Bulls. In addition to their 13-18 record, they've been the subject of numerous rumors of discord in the locker room.  

And as Haynes points out, with DeRozan set to go into the last season of his deal next year, the Bulls will very likely have to either work out an extension after the season, or find him a new home. And if the turmoil continues through the season, DeRozan may request the latter. "Chicago has its work cut out," says Haynes.

Photo: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports