DeMar DeRozan‘s time with the Sacramento Kings could be over. Over the past few days, there have been reports that DeRozan could negotiate a contract buyout with the Kings this offseason. If that happens, the veteran star could be a hot commodity in the free agent market.
Thanks for the submission!
DeRozan is in the final year of his three-year, $73 million contract. He is set to earn $25.7 million in the 2026-27 NBA season, but only $10 million is guaranteed. The six-time All-Star is expected to have his contract waived and stretched by Sacramento.
•
Five teams could pursue the veteran star this summer to give their respective teams a much-needed scoring boost.
5 NBA Teams That Could Pursue DeMar DeRozan
#1 Miami Heat
The Miami Heat are building something special after forming a dynamic duo with Bam Adebayo and Giannis Antetokounmpo. As they look to contend for a championship, it would be beneficial for Miami to have a strong supporting cast.
DeMar DeRozan could provide the scoring depth that the Heat needs off the bench. While he isn’t the same scorer as he once was, he’s experienced enough to lead the team’s second unit and serve as the sixth man.
#2 Toronto Raptors
Kyle Lowry and Kawhi Leonard returned to the Toronto Raptors, and maybe it’s time for DeRozan to do the same. The Raptors reunited with Leonard to help the team’s young core, and adding another veteran star could give the team the needed push for the postseason.
Lowry also finished his career with the Raptors after signing a one-day contract. It’s also been reported that Leonard plans to retire in Toronto. Fans would love it if DeRozan does the same and ends his NBA career with the team that drafted him.
#3 New York Knicks
The New York Knicks need more scoring punch off the bench after winning the 2026 championship. In free agency, they lost Mitchell Robinson, and there have been reports about re-signing veteran guard Jordan Clarkson.
If the Knicks fail to sign Clarkson, DeMar DeRozan could be a great pickup for the reigning champions. If the Kings buy him out, DeRozan could sign a veteran minimum deal to play in New York, and he will solve the team’s bench scoring.
#4 Golden State Warriors
There have been numerous players linked to the Golden State Warriors, and DeRozan could join the mix. Since the Warriors are trying to maximize Steph Curry’s championship window, the three-time All-NBA star would be a major acquisition.
The Warriors will miss the production from Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody for a significant chunk of the regular season due to injury. Adding a capable scorer like DeMar DeRozan could solve their problem and give Curry the much-needed help. Additionally, they could sign him to a cheap contract if he’s bought out.
#5 Detroit Pistons
The Detroit Pistons lost Tobias Harris after he signed a two-year, $31 million contract to join the San Antonio Spurs. With his departure, the Pistons need a reliable starting forward who could help Cade Cunningham carry the scoring load.
DeMar DeRozan fits that description, since he’s proven to be an efficient scorer even at 36 years old. Last season with the Kings, he averaged 18.4 points on 49.7% shooting.
If the Pistons could acquire DeRozan at a discounted price, he could be one of the biggest steals in free agency.
Edited by Reign Amurao
