The Sacramento Kings have waived six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan, opening the door for him to become one of the top free agents available. The move comes as the Kings, in a rebuilding phase, aimed to trim salary. DeRozan's contract for next season included only $10 million guaranteed out of a potential $25.7 million, allowing both sides to agree on his release.

Despite turning 37 in August, DeRozan remained a potent offensive force in his 17th season, averaging 18.4 points on nearly 50% shooting for Sacramento. He also maintained his career-long commitment to availability, appearing in all but five games. The Kings acquired DeRozan via trade in the summer of 2024, later pairing him with former Bulls teammate Zach LaVine.

Multiple contending teams are expected to pursue DeRozan, particularly those that miss out on other high-profile free agents. However, the Los Angeles Lakers are not considered a likely destination. The Kings have until the end of August to decide whether to stretch the remaining $10 million of DeRozan's contract over three seasons, which would place them below both NBA salary cap aprons.