After being waived by the Kings, DeMar DeRozan has emerged as a coveted free agent, with contenders like the Nuggets, Heat, Warriors, and Knicks reportedly among the teams linked to the veteran scorer.
After DeMar DeRozan's run with the Sacramento Kings came to an end, several contender teams are getting linked to him.
On Monday, the Kings waived the six-time All-Star. The surprising move was driven largely by finances. DeRozan was due to make $25.7 million next season, but only $10 million of that salary was guaranteed.
Sacramento now has significant financial flexibility and can further reduce its cap hit by stretching the guaranteed money over the next three seasons after moving on from the star forward.
The decision also comes as the franchise decides to change its direction. The Kings are prioritizing younger talent and adding draft picks. And DeRozan no longer fits into the organization's long-term plans despite another productive campaign.
The 36-year-old averaged 18.4 points, 4.1 assists, and 2.9 rebounds. He shot an efficient 49.7% from the field across 77 games last season. Even as he enters his 18th NBA season, the California-born player remains one of the league's most reliable mid-range scorers and durable veterans.
He appeared in at least 70 games in each of the last five seasons.
Within 24 hours of the waiver, speculation surrounding his next destination has started to heat up. Now that he is an unrestricted free agent, several playoff contender teams are expected to pursue him.
What Are the Realistic Landing Spots for DeRozan?
According to ESPN's Dave McMenamin, teams that fail to land LeBron James in free agency could quickly pivot toward DeRozan. Among the franchises mentioned as potential fits are the Denver Nuggets, Miami Heat, and Golden State Warriors.
Denver could benefit from another proven shot creator behind Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. Also, Miami has long been linked to DeRozan as it continues searching for additional half-court scoring alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Golden State Warriors have also reportedly been floated as a possible landing spot, with Anthony Slater noting the Bay Area team is expected to look into DeRozan in the coming days.
Additionally, a reunion with the Toronto Raptors has also been discussed after Kawhi Leonard's return to the franchise. Although questions remain about the basketball fit, reuniting two of the biggest names from one of the most significant trades in NBA history would certainly create intrigue.
The New York Knicks have also emerged as an outside possibility. While DeRozan would likely have to embrace a smaller bench role, New York continues to search for additional scoring and ball-handling behind Jalen Brunson.
However, despite his Southern California roots, one team that reportedly is not expected to pursue DeRozan is the Los Angeles Lakers.
Wherever he lands, DeRozan is unlikely to remain on the market for long. The three-time All-NBA selection still ranks among the NBA's all-time leading scorers and has continued producing at a high level, making him one of the most accomplished veterans available in free agency.
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