New DeMar DeRozan Rumors Reveal Potential Eastern Conference Landing Spot After Kings Exit

After spending the last two seasons with the Sacramento Kings, veteran guard DeMar DeRozan reportedly could be on his way back East.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, league sources said that the Detroit Pistons "are still evaluating the prospect of pursuing" DeRozan in free agency this offseason. Stein noted that it's "not yet certain if Detroit will indeed join [the Toronto Raptors] as a confirmed bidder," but the team has been "assessing the concept."

DeRozan began his career with the Raptors before being traded to the San Antonio Spurs in 2018. He later signed with the Chicago Bulls in 2021 before signing with the Kings two years ago. Sacramento waived him earlier this month after mutually agreeing to part ways.

While he will turn 37 on Aug. 7, DeRozan is still a reliable scorer and one of the top players available on the open market. The Pistons desperately need a running mate for star guard Cade Cunningham, as no other player on the team averaged 20 points during the postseason.

Targeting DeRozan would be a smart move for a Detroit team that already has a solid mix of youth and experience. The six-time All-Star would surely help the Pistons maintain their status as one of the top contenders in the Eastern Conference in 2026-27.