NBA Rumors: The 4 Teams That Could Sign DeMar DeRozan After Being Waived by the Kings
In addition to the Los Angeles Lakers, the 36-year-old player could return to the Toronto Raptors or move to the Detroit Pistons or Miami Heat, heavyweights of the Eastern Conference.
DeMar DeRozan is now officially a unrestricted free agent. After the Sacramento Kings decided to part ways with him, the veteran player is free to sign with any team offering a reasonable contract.
With the market in full swing, there are four franchises that stand out as possible destinations for the six-time All-Star.
Toronto Raptors, a return to where it all began
Toronto was the team where DeRozan spent most of his career. During his nine seasons with the Raptors, he established himself as the franchise's primary offensive leader.
His name is also linked to the ring won by Toronto in 2019, although in a way very different from what he would have wished for. DeRozan was the key piece sent to the San Antonio Spurs in the trade that brought Kawhi Leonard to the Raptors, a move that eventually led to the franchise's first championship in history.
Now, the possibility arises for a return to Toronto, where the shooting guard would have the opportunity to rejoin the team where his NBA journey began.
The Lakers, the hometown option
The Los Angeles Lakers also appear among the possible destinations. A Compton native, DeRozan would have the chance to wear the jersey of his hometown team.
From a sports perspective, his efficiency in mid-range shooting could help relieve offensive pressure on Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. However, sharing the spotlight with both would mean having fewer possessions than he has typically had throughout his career.
According to available information, there is mutual interest between the player and the Los Angeles franchise.
Detroit seeks more scoring to assist Cade Cunningham
The Detroit Pistons are also contenders to add DeRozan to their roster.
The franchise aims to add an offensive focal point to alleviate the scoring burden on Cade Cunningham. Last season, no player on the team averaged 20 points per game, although Jalen Duren came close to that mark. However, his presence did not draw enough defensive attention to ease the responsibility on Cunningham.
Miami, another possibility on the table
The Miami Heat round out the list of potential destinations. After signing Giannis Antetokounmpo, the franchise under Pat Riley's leadership maintains a clear commitment to competing at the highest level.
The team has also been linked to a potential reunion with LeBron James, although DeRozan's profile would also fit due to his ability to produce from mid-range, complementing Giannis and Bam Adebayo on offense. Furthermore, the presence of both could help compensate for the veteran guard's defensive shortcomings.
At least one report from Miami suggests that DeRozan is interested in a move to South Beach.
This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rumores NBA: Los 4 equipos que podrían acoger a DeMar DeRozan tras ser cortado por los Kings
