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Training camp may have started, but the San Antonio Spurs may not be done wheeling and dealing just yet. According to a report from Shams Charania of The Athletic, DeMar DeRozan and the Spurs have begun contract extension discussions.
Sources on Inside Pass in @TheAthletic: Spurs and DeMar DeRozan discussing contract extension as DeRozan focuses on season; Raptors rising star Pascal Siakam seeks max deal in extension talks. More here: https://t.co/KgXPQ83SUe
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 4, 2019
Although the Spurs and their star guard have opened negotiations, league sources told The Athletic “nothing is imminent.”
DeRozan has a $27.7 million player option available for the 2020-2021 season. While a decision is crucial for the front office to determine their financial freedom in the coming years, DeMar made it clear on media day where his focus lies.
DeMar DeRozan says he will not let impending contract negotiations affect him on the court this summer...#ksatsports #ksatnews #NBAMediaDay #NBA #GoSpursGo pic.twitter.com/eCH9e1RVKE
— RJ Marquez (@KSATRJ) September 30, 2019
The four-time All-Star averaged 21.2 points, 6.2 assists, and 6.0 rebounds per game in his first season with the Spurs: impressive numbers considering it was a transition year full of adjustments for both parties.
San Antonio has until the veteran contact extension deadline next summer to pull the trigger, but a deal with DeRozan could come sooner. The franchise was in a similar situation with LaMarcus Aldrige a few seasons ago and opted to act early.
DeRozan and his teammates were enthusiastic about the organization when they spoke to the media on Monday. If they can turn their ardor into production, the Spurs might put together a surprise run in the ultra-competitive Western Conference.