DeMar DeRozan was among the first to find out that Kyle Lowry would be traded from the Miami Heat to the Charlotte Hornets this week.
Lowry called DeRozan early Tuesday morning to inform him about the trade before it became public. For DeRozan, it was a tough situation, not just as a player or competitor, but as a close friend.
DeRozan expressed his disappointment, emphasizing that his priority is to support Lowry as a friend, rather than focusing on basketball. He reached out to Lowry the previous night to check on his mental state, as that is his primary concern.
At this stage of their careers, both players understand the harsh reality of the business. Lowry stood by DeRozan when he was traded by the Raptors in 2018 without any discussion or consolation. They had been teammates in Toronto for six seasons and were close friends both on and off the court.
As the NBA trade deadline approaches each winter, DeRozan anticipates the inevitable uncertainty created by the market.
DeRozan stated that he approaches this time of year with an open mind, acknowledging that anything is possible. He tries to focus on what he can control, and when changes occur, they all turn to social media to see what happens next.
Charlotte may not be Lowry's final destination. The Hornets have reportedly been looking to trade Lowry; if that doesn't happen, they might negotiate a buyout of his contract.
The Bulls have an available roster spot and some flexibility under the luxury tax. With ongoing injuries affecting the backcourt, they require backup guards.
This leads to the obvious question: Could Lowry be a good fit in Chicago?
DeRozan expressed confidence that Kyle will fit in wherever he is.
DeRozan mentioned that reuniting on the court has never been a top priority for him and Lowry. Despite their moves away from Toronto, they have maintained their friendship, but they haven't actively planned to end up on the same team.
DeRozan, aged 34, noted that they rarely discuss it. They tend to reminisce about the past, but they don't bring up the present.
However, this doesn't mean that he wouldn't appreciate the opportunity to play alongside his friend again.
Acquiring Lowry, a six-time All-Star, would pose significant rotation questions in Chicago. The Bulls are confident in Coby White's ability to lead as the starting point guard. This implies that Lowry would either play off-ball in the starting lineup or, more likely, assume the point guard role for the bench unit.
This transition in Lowry's career is not surprising. The Heat were attempting to change their point guard position during the offseason when they pursued Damian Lillard. Given that Lowry is 37, it's natural for him to take on a more supportive role with his final team.
Considering this, DeRozan expressed willingness to facilitate discussions between Lowry and the Bulls' front office if either party is interested in bringing the guard to Chicago.
DeRozan said that if it was something Lowry wanted to do, he would support him. Lowry is one of his closest friends and one of the smartest players he has played with in the league, so he sees no reason not to support him.
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