DeMar DeRozan may be one of the most underappreciated All-Stars of his generation, but make no mistake, he can still shift the balance of power for a contender. At 35, he’s not the explosive mid-range artist of a decade ago.
Still, in the 2024–25 season, he’s been one of the few consistent bright spots on the turbulent Chicago Bulls and Sacramento Kings teams, averaging 22.2 points per game on 47.7% from the field, and has always remained a threat in late-game situations.
With Sacramento trending toward a full reset following the De’Aaron Fox trade and DeRozan still on the books until 2026-27, a trade this summer feels all but inevitable. Title contenders in need of a proven scorer, secondary playmaker, and playoff-tested veteran should be circling.
DeRozan may not launch threes like today’s stars (32.8% this season from deep), but his shot creation, leadership, and ability to slow the game down in key moments make him a premium acquisition for teams one piece away. With the Kings likely to prioritize younger assets and future picks, don’t be surprised if we see a DeRozan move that jolts the playoff race before next season tips off.
Los Angeles Lakers
Proposed Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: DeMar DeRozan
Sacramento Kings Receive: Rui Hachimura, Shake Milton, 2030 Second-Round Pick (LAC)
DeMar DeRozan has been a consistent offensive force for the Sacramento Kings this season, averaging 22.2 points, 4.4 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game while shooting 47.7% from the field. His mid-range proficiency and ability to create his own shot make him a valuable asset for any contender. The Los Angeles Lakers, seeking to bolster their scoring options alongside Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves, could benefit from DeRozan’s experience and offensive versatility.
Rui Hachimura, contributing 13.1 points and 5.0 rebounds per game on 50.9% shooting, offers the Kings a young forward (27) with potential to grow within their system. Shake Milton adds depth to the backcourt, averaging 5.5 points and 1.8 assists per game. The inclusion of a 2030 second-round pick provides Sacramento with additional assets for future development.
This trade allows the Lakers to add a seasoned scorer to their roster, and their starting lineup could be stacked with offensive threats. A potential lineup with Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, DeMar DeRozan, LeBron James, and a new starting center would easily be a title-contender over the next two seasons. If the Lakers want to go all-in, they can strike a deal for DeRozan because the Kings wouldn’t mind bringing back a 27-year-old Hachimura to be a part of their long-term core.
Miami Heat
Proposed Trade Details
Miami Heat Receive: DeMar DeRozan, Devin Carter
Sacramento Kings Receive: Andrew Wiggins, 2028 First-Round Pick (MIA), 2031 Second-Round Pick (MIA)
The Miami Heat, with their competitive spirit and strong organizational culture still standing strong despite a turbulent season, could integrate DeRozan’s scoring prowess to complement their existing core of Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo. After all, they need the offensive replacement for the departed Jimmy Butler.
DeRozan’s consistent performance this season, with 22.2 points per game, would provide the Heat with an additional offensive weapon. Devin Carter, a 23-year-old point guard averaging 3.8 points and 2.1 rebounds per game, adds depth and potential for future development.
In exchange, the Kings receive Andrew Wiggins, who is contributing 18.0 points and 4.5 rebounds per game this season. Wiggins’ athleticism and defensive capabilities could be valuable for Sacramento’s wing rotation. The inclusion of a 2028 first-round pick and a 2031 second-round pick provides the Kings with future assets to aid in their rebuilding efforts.
This trade offers the Heat an immediate boost in scoring and experience, while the Kings gain a versatile wing player and valuable draft capital for their long-term plans. The Heat won’t be the favorites to come out of the East with this deal, but they would be one step closer than they were this season as the 8th seed.
San Antonio Spurs
Proposed Trade Details
San Antonio Spurs Receive: DeMar DeRozan
Sacramento Kings Receive: Jeremy Sochan, Harrison Barnes, 2025 First-Round Pick (SAS)
DeRozan’s return to the San Antonio Spurs would bring veteran leadership and scoring to a young roster headlined by Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox. His experience and consistent offensive production could guide emerging talents on the team. This season, DeRozan’s 22.2 points per game highlight his continued effectiveness on the court.
The Kings, in turn, acquire Jeremy Sochan, a promising forward averaging 11.4 points and 6.5 rebounds per game on 53.5% shooting. Sochan’s versatility and defensive potential make him a valuable asset for Sacramento’s future. Harrison Barnes, contributing 12.3 points per game on 50.8% shooting, brings experience and consistency to the Kings’ lineup. The addition of a 2025 first-round pick from the Spurs further enhances Sacramento’s draft capital.
This trade allows the Spurs to add a proven scorer to support their young core, while the Kings receive a mix of youthful potential and veteran presence, along with a valuable draft pick to aid in their strategic planning. For the Spurs, assuming Wemby returns from his absence this year due to blood clots, they could complete a new Big Three going forward.
