DeMar DeRozan could be staying out West. With the Miami Heat and Denver Nuggets both making moves, it seems more likely DeRozan could suit up alongside Nikola Jokic.
As part of a relatively quiet offseason, the Sacramento Kings did part ways with multiple veteran players, including DeMar DeRozan and Russell Westbrook.
Both players left on good terms, seeking a similar situation in free agency where they could land with contenders.
But, with Westbrook's recent retirement, and DeRozan remaining on the market, the result of their departures remains unknown.
For DeRozan, the Miami Heat and Toronto Raptors had emerged as early suitors for the mid-range specialist, but a new team has reportedly entered the hunt after recent moves.
The Denver Nuggets, who have dealt with injuries and playoff shortcomings since winning the NBA Championship in 2023, are "motivated" to sign DeRozan and add to their offensive firepower.
According to ClutchPoints National NBA Insider & Reporter Brett Siegel, Denver would "welcome" the idea of bringing in DeRozan, but don't have much cap space to do so.
On Thursday, Denver did part ways with Peyton Watson, who was a restricted free agent, but the team remains capped out due to recent extensions and moves.
But, DeRozan is reportedly looking for a bit more money after his buyout with the Kings, as the Miami Herald noted the six-time All Star is looking for an exception level deal.
According to Spotrac, the 2026-2027 exception contract maxes out at north of $15 million, which is likely close to DeRozan's asking price.
But, with the Heat closing in on acquiring Klay Thompson, DeRozan's suitors are becoming slimmer.
If DeRozan were to find his way to Denver, he would provide high-level scoring and experience to a team looking to capitalize in Nikola Jokic's prime.
While he is not the athletic scorer he once was, DeRozan can still score at a high rate and provide extensive playoff experience.
The 6-foot-6 mid-range assassin averaged 18.4 points per game this season, shooting a stellar 49.7 percent from the field.
This showing marked the fifth time in DeRozan's career shooting 49 percent or better, a highly efficient mark for a jump-shooting wing.
DeRozan's availability has also stayed steady, playing in 74 or more games for the past five seasons.
With another similar statistical season, DeRozan will close in on Shaquille O'Neal for a place within the top 10 point scorers to ever lace them up.
Suiting up alongside a player with Jokic's gravity and passing ability would definitely help him get easier looks and stay fresher down the stretch of games.
While critics may point to DeRozan's negative advanced metrics or lack of postseason success, his place in scoring history is becoming difficult to ignore.
And despite turning 37 two weeks ago, DeRozan's game is not predicated on athletic ability, and he has shown consistency and availability regardless of his age and situation.
