DeMar DeRozan: Latest NBA News

Six-time NBA All-Star DeMar DeRozan remains one of the league’s most accomplished veteran scorers. After another productive season, the veteran forward has become one of the biggest names in NBA free agency following the Sacramento Kings’ decision to waive him.

Although several contenders have been linked with DeRozan, including the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks, no deal has been finalized as of July 2026.

DeMar DeRozan Stats

DeRozan continues to be one of the NBA’s most consistent offensive players.

2025–26 Season Stats

• Points per game: 18.4
• Rebounds: 2.9
• Assists: 4.1
• Games played: 77
• Field Goal Percentage: 49.7%

Despite entering his late 30s, DeRozan remained one of Sacramento’s most reliable scorers while climbing the NBA’s all-time scoring list.

Current Team Status

Until July 2026, DeRozan played for the Sacramento Kings after joining the franchise in a sign-and-trade deal before the 2024–25 season.

However, Sacramento officially waived the veteran forward, making him an unrestricted free agent.

Career teams include:

• Toronto Raptors
• San Antonio Spurs
• Chicago Bulls
• Sacramento Kings

DeMar DeRozan Contract

DeRozan originally signed a three-year, $73.7 million contract before the 2024 season.

Contract highlights:

• Total value: $73.71 million
• Average annual salary: $24.57 million
• Final season salary: Approximately $25.7 million

Only part of his final season salary remained guaranteed, allowing Sacramento to move on from the veteran during the 2026 offseason.

Lakers Rumors

The Los Angeles Lakers have been connected to DeRozan for years because:

• He grew up in Southern California.
• He has previously expressed admiration for the Lakers.
• Los Angeles explored signing him during previous free agency periods.

Following his release, many fans expected the Lakers to pursue him once again.

However, recent reports indicate the Lakers are unlikely to sign DeRozan, despite the long-running speculation. Team executives reportedly prefer younger, more versatile players around their current core.

Knicks Interest

The New York Knicks have also appeared in recent speculation.

NBA analysts believe DeRozan could provide:

• Veteran leadership
• Reliable half-court scoring
• Late-game shot creation
• Bench scoring if willing to accept a reduced role

Still, there has been no confirmed agreement between DeRozan and New York. Reports describe the Knicks as one of several teams evaluating veteran scorers during free agency.

Trade Rumors Explained

Before his release, numerous trade rumors surrounded DeRozan.

Several factors fueled speculation:

• Expiring contract
• Veteran experience
• Playoff scoring ability
• Manageable salary

Sacramento reportedly explored trade options but ultimately chose to waive the six-time All-Star after failing to complete a deal.

Career Highlights

DeRozan has built one of the NBA’s most impressive careers.

Achievements include:

• Six-time NBA All-Star
• Three-time All-NBA selection
• Olympic Gold Medalist
• More than 26,000 career points
• One of the NBA’s all-time leading scorers

His elite mid-range game and consistency have made him one of the most respected scorers of his generation.

What Makes DeRozan Special?

Unlike many modern NBA stars, DeRozan dominates without relying heavily on three-point shooting.

His strengths include:

• Elite footwork
• Mid-range scoring
• Clutch shot-making
• Drawing fouls
• Leadership
• Basketball IQ

These qualities continue to make him an attractive option for playoff contenders.

What’s Next for DeMar DeRozan?

Now an unrestricted free agent, DeRozan has several possible destinations.

Potential landing spots include:

• Los Angeles Lakers (though recent reports downplay the possibility)
• New York Knicks
• Other championship contenders seeking veteran scoring

His decision will likely depend on:

• Championship opportunity
• Role on the team
• Financial considerations
• Playing time

FAQs

What team is DeMar DeRozan on?

As of July 2026, DeRozan is an unrestricted free agent after being waived by the Sacramento Kings.

Are the Lakers signing DeMar DeRozan?

Recent reports indicate the Lakers are not expected to pursue DeRozan in free agency.

Are the Knicks interested in DeMar DeRozan?

The Knicks have been mentioned as a possible destination, but no agreement has been reported.

What are DeMar DeRozan’s latest stats?

He averaged 18.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in 77 games during the 2025–26 season.

What was DeMar DeRozan’s contract?

He signed a three-year, $73.7 million contract before the 2024–25 season.

Conclusion

DeMar DeRozan remains one of the NBA’s premier veteran scorers despite entering the later stages of his career. After his departure from the Sacramento Kings, attention has shifted to where the six-time All-Star will play next. While the Lakers and Knicks continue to generate speculation, his next move will likely be determined by the opportunity to compete for an NBA championship.