New NBA Rumors on DeMar DeRozan's Kings Future, Potential Landing Spots in Free Agency

The Sacramento Kings are expected to use the stretch provision to waive veteran wing DeMar DeRozan, according to HoopsHype's Michael Scotto.

While DeRozan is on the books for a $25.7 million salary in 2026-27, only $10 million is guaranteed. Sacramento could then split that number evenly across three seasons by waiving-and-stretching him.

Scotto reported the Los Angeles Clippers are likely to have interest in the Compton, California, native once he's officially available. The Kings and Clippers spoke about a potential trade ahead of the February trade deadline, which came to nothing. Los Angeles' interest dates back a little further than that.

The fact Sacramento would waive DeRozan rather than find a trade partner speaks for itself. Opposing teams see him as a negative asset on his current deal.

The six-time All-Star continued to be a productive scorer in 2025-26, though. He averaged 18.4 points on 49.7 percent shooting. He also logged 70-plus appearances for the fifth straight year. That kind of durability shouldn't be taken for granted.

DeRozan's production is encouraging in terms of how he'd adjust to a more supporting role in new surroundings. His 13.1 shot attempts and 22.8 percent usage rate were his second-lowest ever, per Basketball Reference, and neither impacted his efficiency.

While deployed far more at the 3 and as a small-ball 4 in recent seasons, the Clippers could envision using DeRozan in the backcourt alongside Darius Garland. He could instead provide some depth behind Kawhi Leonard at one of the forward spots.

L.A. probably isn't going to be the only bidder once DeRozan's exit from the Kings is official. His experience and offensive ability will be valued by a few franchises with playoff aspirations.