The Sacramento Kings have waived veteran guard DeMar DeRozan, officially making the six-time All-Star a free agent. The move, reported Monday, is the latest roster decision by a rebuilding franchise seeking to create financial flexibility and accelerate its youth movement.
DeRozan, 36, spent two seasons with the Kings after signing in free agency. During that span, he started all 77 games he appeared in each year and posted averages of 20.3 points, 4.3 assists and 3.4 rebounds over 33.6 minutes per contest. Prior to Sacramento, he had started at least 74 games in each of the previous five seasons, underscoring his remarkable durability and consistency as a frontline option.
The Kings' decision to move on from DeRozan represents a clear organizational pivot. After years of middling playoff results, the franchise appears committed to a full rebuild, and DeRozan's substantial salary and veteran status made him a logical candidate for a roster change. By waiving him, Sacramento gains cap flexibility that could be used in trades, free-agent signings, or draft-night maneuvering.
Now DeRozan hits the open market as one of its most experienced available players. His scoring pedigree and playoff familiarity make him an attractive rotation option for contenders seeking a stabilizing veteran presence. Several teams with championship aspirations could view him as a low-risk addition who can contribute immediately in a reduced role.
The timing of the waiver also matters. With the NBA offseason calendar moving quickly, DeRozan now has the opportunity to visit multiple teams, evaluate systems, and negotiate terms before training camps open. His market value will depend largely on fit and ambition: contenders may offer shorter deals with championship bonuses, while rebuilding teams could pitch a larger offensive role.
For the Kings, the move is part of a broader roster teardown. By clearing salary and embracing a youth-centric timeline, Sacramento is betting on player development and future draft capital over short-term competitiveness. Whether that strategy pays off will be measured over the next few seasons.
For DeRozan, this is a chance to redefine the final chapter of a decorated career. A sixth-time All-Star with deep playoff experience, he remains capable of impacting a game on both ends. The team that signs him will be getting a professional who knows how to prepare, lead and perform when it matters most.
Sources
https://apnews.com/article/demar-derozan-kings-free-agent-cba23d2d23a804fcc3e777d2c2babb5f
