DeMar DeRozan has earned one last major payday

DeMar DeRozan is in the final season of his three-year, $81 million deal. He will become an unrestricted free agent in the summer. Throughout his tenure with the Chicago Bulls, his production has ensured he will have multiple interested suitors around the league. As such, the Bulls may look to tie him down to a contract extension in the near future.

NBC Sports Chicago's K.C. Johnson believes DeRozan could sign another significant contract due to his recent performance. 

"I think the most likely outcome is a shorter-term deal at a significant annual figure---maybe two years at $70-74 million with a team option for a third year? Just guessing there," Johnson wrote in a March 21 article. "He’s eligible to sign a three-year, $130 million deal before unrestricted free agency begins on July 1."

DeRozan has been the Bulls' primary offensive option this season. In 68 games, he's averaging 23.1 points, 4.3 rebounds and 5.2 assists on 47.2% shooting from the field. At 34 years old, DeRozan's next contract will likely be his last substantial payday. He has earned the opportunity to sign another big deal.

The Bulls will need to weigh up their decision, though. Their roster has struggled to crack the top 10 of the Eastern Conference this season, and they're also short on tradable assets. Building a contending roster around an aging forward may not be conducive to constructing a championship contender. However, extending such an offer would be a sign of respect, given how DeRozan has carried himself during his tenure with the team. 

The Bulls have some tough decisions to make this summer. DeRozan's contract shouldn't be one of them. He's been a true veteran and a reliable presence on the court. He's earned his next payday. Chicago can't afford to lose him for nothing in free agency.