As Sacramento nears a buyout with DeMar DeRozan, the veteran scorer emerges as a potential bargain for Pat Riley to bolster Miami Heat's title pursuit.
MIAMI, Fla. – In the early stages of free agency, the Miami Heat have 80 percent of the roster set – three standard and a couple of two-way slots available. Team President Pat Riley and the front office continue to explore the veteran minimum market. At the same time, LeBron James’ decision is looming.
However, the business side of the league doesn’t stop for anyone. After acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster trade – expected to be finalized on Monday, July 6 – the Heat must go all in to compete for a championship. Although a reunion with James is intriguing, another All-Star option might emerge in the upcoming days.
League insider Jake Fischer reported on Saturday that the Sacramento Kings and DeMar DeRozan are expected to agree on a contract buyout. He’s entering the final season of a three-year, $73.10 million deal. DeRozan is guaranteed $10 million by the Kings – $25.74 million fully by Jan. 10, 2027. Following back-to-back losing seasons, a divorce is on the horizon.
DeRozan is a six-time All-Star and three-time All-NBA forward who is known as one of the best midrange shooters in the league. Last season, he averaged 18.4 points on 49.7 percent shooting, 2.9 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and a steal in 77 games (all starts). It’s the first time DeRozan’s averaged less than 20 points since 2013.
Although the 36-year-old is reaching the end of a long NBA career, he can still be effective.
DeRozan is likely to generate interest on the open market, including the Heat, but on a veteran minimum salary. None of the contenders have any cap space. Although several are operating with space before crossing the first apron threshold, DeRozan doesn’t hold enough value to command a big contract.
The California native has been linked to the Heat in recent memory, but questions about fitting alongside Jimmy Butler were always raised. The former Eastern Conference Finals MVP is no longer with the organization. DeRozan would give the Heat another inside-the-arc threat. Also, he’s around the league notorious for getting to the free-throw line with pump-fakes.
Although the Heat are prioritizing shooting and bigger guards to fill out the roster, DeRozan could move some plans around. He could be a backup option if James decides to sign elsewhere. There will be a handful of more business decisions to make, but the Heat are taking the necessary measures to solidify contention status.
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Anthony Aguirre is the Miami Heat beat writer for Roundtable Sports. Contact info: [email protected] | 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
