The Sacramento Kings waived six-time All-Star guard DeMar DeRozan on Monday, July 6, 2026, to clear significant salary-cap space.
The financially motivated transaction creates an immediate veteran market for the high-scoring forward ahead of the upcoming NBA season.
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According to reports from cbssports.
com, the move saves Sacramento at least $15.7 million because only $10 million of DeRozan's $25.7 million salary was guaranteed.
The rebuilding franchise can further increase short-term savings by stretching the remaining guaranteed money over the next three seasons.
ESPN's Shams Charania reported that Sacramento finalized the release after both parties collaboratively explored potential trade avenues.
DeRozan now enters the open market for his 18th professional season, where he will turn 38 years old before opening night.
The veteran remains a highly productive scorer, averaging 18.4 points, 4.1 assists, and 2.9 rebounds while shooting nearly 50% from the field last season.
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DeRozan currently ranks 18th in NBA history with 26,711 career points, driven primarily by an elite midrange game and exceptional footwork.
Analytic trends and lack of perimeter shooting have shifted modern team investments, potentially forcing the veteran to accept a league-minimum contract to join a championship contender.
Multiple franchises seeking offensive depth stand out as viable landing spots for his services.
The Houston Rockets represent a strong potential suitor as they attempt to maximize their competitive window around superstar Kevin Durant and 23-year-old All-Star center Alperen Sengun.
DeRozan's shot-creation abilities could alleviate offensive pressure on young Houston guards like Amen Thompson.
Other organizations linked to the veteran include the Denver Nuggets, Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors, Toronto Raptors, and New York Knicks.
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Teams missing out on free agent LeBron James may also pivot toward signing DeRozan to bolster their bench scoring units.
