SAN ANTONIO – The Spurs are in the midst of a losing season and there is speculation that DeMar DeRozan may not be with the team much longer.
That speculation was fueled by DeRozan apparently clearing his Instagram posts on his official account.
Social media users noted that the last time DeRozan cleared his account was when he was traded from Toronto to San Antonio in the Kawhi Leonard deal.
DeRozan has been linked to several teams in recent weeks, including Orlando and Miami.
Barry Jackson of the Miami-Herald reported that Heat general manager Pat Riley pursued DeRozan in 2016, and the Spurs situation is worth monitoring.
DeRozan trade rumors surface as Spurs’ struggles continue
For his part, DeRozan has played his best basketball of the season on the offensive end.
He has averaged nearly 24 points, 5.5. rebounds and 4.5 assists over the past ten games, but the Spurs continue to struggle especially on defense.
DeRozan has also stayed professional in the locker room and has not spoken publicly about his status or future with the Spurs organization.
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After the Spurs loss to the Lakers on Monday, DeRozan was asked about being a team leader and staying positive despite a 6-12 record.
“Everybody hates losing. It sucks to lose, but with that you have to be resilient,” said DeRozan.
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich lauded DeRozan and LaMarcus Aldridge for their leadership following Monday’s loss.
“I think DeMar and LA both have been a monster, they have been great leaders, not hanging their heads during a tough period while we are trying to gel as a group," said Popovich. "Every night they come to play. They don’t get down on their teammates. They have done a good job in showing that.”
Despite DeRozan’s best efforts, the Spurs continue to slide down the standings, and rumors of a trade will likely only heat up as we head into the winter.