With LeBron James on the roster and Paul George electing to return to Oklahoma City, reports have surfaced stating the Lakers are looking to acquire a second star. You have the best player in the world—why not compete for titles immediately? Some of the names that have popped up in rumors: Kawhi Leonard, John Wall, Bradley Beal, Damian Lillard, Kevin Love, and DeMar DeRozan.
DeRozan is from Compton and played his college ball at USC. Furthermore, the Raptors franchise is in an interesting place, and they may look to shake things up this summer. So, does DeMar want to come home to L.A.? It sure doesn't seem so.
A Lakers fan recently spotted DeRozan and encouraged him to "come to the Lakers," but DeRozan swatted the feeble request away. He responded with a simple "hell nah."
DeRozan probably feels some type of rivalry with LeBron. LBJ's Cleveland teams have eliminated Toronto from each of the past three postseasons.
Additionally, DeMar's future in Toronto seems secure for the time being—if anyone on that roster should be worried, it's probably Kyle Lowry. DeRozan signed a five-year, $130 million contract in 2016.
Last season, DeRozan averaged 23.0 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game while shooting 31.0 percent from downtown. He qualified for Second Team All-NBA and made his fourth All-Star team.
This doesn't mean a deal couldn't happen, of course—if the price is right, Toronto would probably seriously consider it—but it should discourage Lakers fans hoping to have DeRozan on the roster this season.
