DeMar DeRozan was preparing to meet with the Los Angeles Clippers about one hour before he came to terms with the Chicago Bulls on a three-year, $85 million deal. The Clippers would have had to clear cap space to sign DeRozan in the form of Luke Kennard, Patrick Beverly and possibly other players, so they would have had to realistic use a sign-and-trade to acquire him.

DeRozan was not prepared to sign with any team at the midlevel exception or taxpayer midlevel. 

Talks with the Bulls progressed to a deal for DeRozan and the Clippers were informed while they were in transit that a deal had been reached. DeRozan was also preparing to meet with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Marc Eversley was cited as a big factor in Chicago's ability to sign DeRozan. Eversley was familiar with DeRozan from their days with the Toronto Raptors.