DeMar DeRozan: “I understand what comes with having a rough season”

DeMar DeRozan is wrapping up the last year of his three-season deal with the Chicago Bulls. Although he has the option to extend his contract, discussions regarding an extension have hit a roadblock between DeRozan and the Bulls.

DeRozan, however, remains unfazed by contract negotiations and trade speculations while the season is in full swing. The experienced player prefers to delegate those matters to others, focusing on his game instead.

“This is work time,” DeRozan said Saturday. “I don’t want to hear (bleep), to be honest with you. I’ve been with my agent my whole career, and him knowing me like he does, people around me know how I am when it comes down to that kind of stuff.

“Same thing with family stuff back home. If it isn’t an emergency or something serious, I don’t want to hear about it, I don’t need to know about it.”

DeRozan acknowledges the origin of the inquiries and speculations surrounding him. Nevertheless, he aims to avoid becoming a source of disruption, recognizing the importance of maintaining focus on basketball for both himself and his teammates.

“I understand what comes with having a rough season or rumors, and that speculation is going to come up everywhere,” DeRozan said. “It comes with this profession. Same with my contract.

“I’ve never demanded or stated, made accusations, ‘I want this, I need this, I deserve this.’ I just go out and play and let the chips fall where they fall. Tend to my teammates and be the best version of myself that I can be.”