NBA Rumors: 3 Title Contenders Eyeing DeMar DeRozan This Off-season
DeMar DeRozan remains one of the NBA’s most reliable offensive weapons.
While he may no longer be the high-flying mid-range maestro of his prime, he’s still a potent scorer and clutch performer—qualities that could push a contender over the top.
This season, DeRozan has been a steady presence for the Sacramento Kings, averaging 22.2 PPG on 47.7% shooting, while maintaining his reputation as a late-game assassin.
However, with the Kings seemingly headed toward a rebuild after trading De'Aaron Fox, DeRozan—who is under contract until 2026-27—could be on the move this summer.
Sacramento will likely prioritize young talent and draft picks in any deal, meaning a trade could materialize quickly.
Here are three contenders that should pursue him:
1. Los Angeles Lakers
Trade Proposal:
- Lakers receive: DeMar DeRozan
- Kings receive: Rui Hachimura, Shake Milton, 2030 LAC second-round pick
Why it makes sense:
The Lakers, looking to maximize their championship window with LeBron James and Luka Dončić, need another proven scorer. DeRozan’s ability to create his own shot (22.2 PPG, 4.4 APG) would take pressure off their stars in tight games.
Sacramento gets a young forward in Rui Hachimura (13.1 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 50.9% FG), a serviceable guard in Shake Milton, and a future pick to aid their retooling efforts.
This deal would make Los Angeles an instant title favorite.
2. Miami Heat
Trade Proposal:
- Heat receive: DeMar DeRozan, Devin Carter
- Kings receive: Andrew Wiggins, 2028 MIA first-round pick, 2031 MIA second-round pick
Why it makes sense:
With Jimmy Butler gone, Miami needs a reliable scorer to pair with Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo. DeRozan’s playoff experience and isolation scoring would fit perfectly in Erik Spoelstra’s system.
The Heat also get Devin Carter, a young guard with upside.
Sacramento lands Andrew Wiggins (18.0 PPG, 4.5 RPG), a two-way wing who could thrive in a bigger role, plus future draft assets.
While Miami wouldn’t suddenly become East favorites, this move would solidify them as a top-tier playoff team.
3. San Antonio Spurs
Trade Proposal:
- Spurs receive: DeMar DeRozan
- Kings receive: Jeremy Sochan, Harrison Barnes, 2025 SAS first-round pick
Why it makes sense:
A DeRozan reunion with San Antonio would bring veteran leadership to a young core led by Victor Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox.
Sacramento gets Jeremy Sochan (11.4 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 53.5% FG), a versatile forward with defensive upside, along with Harrison Barnes (12.3 PPG, 50.8% FG) for stability.
The 2025 first-rounder gives them another building block for the future.
If Wembanyama returns healthy, a Fox-DeRozan-Wemby trio could make the Spurs a dangerous playoff team.
Final Thoughts
DeRozan may not be the flashiest name on the trade market, but his scoring, leadership, and clutch gene make him a valuable addition for any contender.
Whether it’s the Lakers, Heat, or Spurs, a deal this summer could shake up the NBA landscape.
Image - Darren Yamashita-Imagn
