NBA trade rumors 2016: DeMar DeRozan to decide on free agency fate; Raptors guard linked to LA Lakers

After a highly successful season that saw them reach the NBA Eastern Conference Finals for the first time, the Toronto Raptors are now hoping to make some moves in the summer that could help them continue progressing.

And one of the biggest news coming from the North is that DeMar DeRozan may be considering options outside the team.

The Raptors finished the season second in the Eastern Conference and were considered possibly the best team to challenge the Cleveland Cavaliers.

They struggled early in the playoffs but got the wins they needed to face the Cavaliers in the ECF.

The Raptors fell short, being eliminated after six games, but many consider this season to be a big step forward for the team.

Along with Kyle Lowry, the team's successes are weighed heavily on DeRozan's shoulders as the seven-year man lifted the team to new heights.

The shooting guard is now heading into his final year of the contract and is set to make around $9.5 million if he honors his current contract with the Raptors.

However, he also has a player option that gives him that chance to choose whether he sees his immediate future with the team, or he can get bigger and better options from other franchises.

There are many speculations on where DeRozan can end up, with the Los Angeles Lakers one of the biggest teams linking up with the guard.

With the Lakers losing Kobe Bryant to retirement, they are certainly looking for a cornerstone in the franchise and many consider DeRozan as that man.

Looking at his numbers this year, it is easily very convincing as DeRozan averages 23.5 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game in a year where he bagged his second All-Star appearance.

There are also reports that DeRozan will be announcing his decision later on in the year, so fans should have to stay tuned.