The Sacramento Kings made a big NBA offseason move on Monday, officially parting ways with veteran star DeMar DeRozan. After weeks of speculation surrounding his future, the organization and the six-time All-Star agreed to a resolution that allows him to hit the open market immediately.
The decision instantly makes DeRozan one of the most accomplished players available in free agency and gives playoff contenders across the league another proven scorer to pursue. While Sacramento explored multiple trade possibilities, none ultimately materialized, leading both sides to work together on a mutual separation.
Now, after 17 NBA seasons and another productive campaign, DeRozan has the opportunity to choose the next chapter of his career.
NBA insider Shams Charania broke the news Monday afternoon.
"Just in: The Sacramento Kings are waiving DeMar DeRozan, making the six-time All-Star one of the top free agents, sources tell ESPN. The sides worked collaboratively on this resolution after exploring trade routes."
The move ends a brief stint in Sacramento for DeRozan, who remained one of the league's most reliable offensive players despite the Kings suffering a disappointing 22-60 season.
DeRozan Remained Productive Despite Difficult Kings Season
Even at 36 years old, DeRozan continued to show why he has been one of the NBA's most consistent scorers for well over a decade.
During the 2025-26 season, he averaged 18.4 points, 4.1 assists, and 2.9 rebounds while shooting 49.7% from the field across 77 games. Those numbers extended a remarkable career that has now spanned 1,264 regular-season games, during which he has averaged 21.1 points per contest.
Although Sacramento struggled throughout the season, DeRozan remained a steady veteran presence for a roster that included Zach LaVine, Malik Monk and Russell Westbrook.
NBA Contenders Could Quickly Enter the Mix
With DeRozan now available without the need for a trade, he immediately becomes one of the most intriguing names remaining on the free-agent market.
His ability to create offense in the mid-range, facilitate for teammates and provide veteran leadership should appeal to several contenders looking to strengthen their rotation ahead of the 2026-27 season.
After earning six All-Star selections and building one of the league's most accomplished résumés, DeRozan will now have the opportunity to evaluate his options as teams look to add proven playoff experience.
Monday's announcement is likely only the beginning of what could become one of the offseason's most closely watched free-agent storylines.
