DeMar DeRozan Released by Kings, Attracts Interest from Multiple Contenders

DeMar DeRozan’s desire to leave the Sacramento Kings was realized on Monday as the team officially released the six-time All-Star. This followed reports suggesting he wanted a change, and both parties worked together on the release. Now, DeRozan is set to become an unrestricted free agent.

Speculation is rampant about which teams might pursue him. Leading contenders include the Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors, and Toronto Raptors, where DeRozan’s NBA journey began 17 years ago. However, the Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly opted out of the running. ESPN’s Dave McMenamin noted that the Lakers are an unlikely destination despite DeRozan’s strong ties to Southern California, where he grew up and attended college at USC.

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DeRozan’s basketball roots run deep in Southern California. As a standout at Compton High School, he earned McDonald’s All-American honors. His journey continued at USC, and his No. 10 jersey is retired there. He joined the NBA when the Toronto Raptors selected him ninth overall in the 2009 Draft.

Over nearly two decades, DeRozan has become a premier mid-range scorer. Last season with the Kings, he posted averages of 18.4 points and 4.1 assists across 31.2 minutes in 77 games, hitting 49.7% of his shots. Playing in the NBA so long, he turns 37 in August. His accolades include six All-Star selections and three All-NBA honors. He is also the Raptors’ all-time leading scorer and 16th on the NBA’s all-time scoring list with 26,711 career points. An NBA title is the one accolade missing from his resume.

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With the Lakers not in play, DeRozan fits well with the Heat. They recently added Giannis Antetokounmpo, retaining Bam Adebayo but losing depth and scoring power in the process. Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Kel’el Ware departed in the Giannis trade, and top scorer Norman Powell joined the Chicago Bulls. For the Warriors, strengthening their roster remains essential as they aim to extend their championship prospects with Steph Curry and Draymond Green.

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The most natural fit might be a return to the Raptors. They just acquired Kawhi Leonard and are reportedly bringing Kyle Lowry back for a possible farewell season. The organization plans a press conference featuring a “special guest.” The strong bond between Lowry and DeRozan could make Toronto an appealing final chapter for DeRozan.