The Detroit Pistons continue to explore ways to boost their rise in the Eastern Conference, and one of the biggest names still available in free agency has emerged as a target.
According to NBA Insider Marc Stein, the Pistons are looking to target six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan after the veteran was waived by the Sacramento Kings. While the Toronto Raptors remain the favorites to reunite with their former star, the Pistons have entered the picture as they look to add more offensive firepower next to Cade Cunningham.
The interest isn’t hard to understand.
The Pistons have already made a few moves this offseason to improve their roster. They have added John Collins while acquiring Isaiah Joe, Taurean Prince, and Gary Harris. The Pistons have also re-signed Kevin Huerter after losing Tobias Harris. Despite those additions, the team is still looking to add another veteran scorer who can ease the offensive load on Cunningham.
And that’s where DeRozan enters the picture.
Even at 36 years old, DeRozan remains one of the league’s best half-court scorers. Last season with the Kings, he averaged 18.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 4.1 assists while shooting 49.7% from the field. His ability to create his own shot, mid-range expertise, and clutch ability have made him one of the league’s best scorers for nearly a decade.
The Pistons already have their superstar in Cunningham, but opponents often loaded up on the All-Star guard last season. Adding another proven scorer would give them a solid secondary option and make life easier for their young star.
The Pistons also have financial flexibility, as they currently sit $46 million below the luxury tax line. This gives them a chance to add a veteran while they continue negotiating extensions for Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson.
Detroit has remained aggressive throughout the offseason, but it has fallen short on its top targets.
The Pistons went after Austin Reaves and Coby White, but both remained with their respective teams. Other targets like Norman Powell and Tyler Herro landed elsewhere.
As a result, DeRozan has become one of the best veterans still on the market.
There are some questions about his fit. The Pistons’ core is built around Cunningham, Duren, Thompson, and other young players. Bringing in a 36-year-old veteran could reduce minutes for younger players. On top of that, DeRozan’s lack of three-point volume isn’t an ideal fit in today’s NBA.
But still, his leadership and clutch scoring could be valuable for a team trying to take the next step toward becoming a contender.
The Raptors remain a serious threat to sign DeRozan, and the Golden State Warriors could also pursue him if their LeBron James pursuit falls through. Other teams like the Miami Heat could also go after DeRozan if their plans don’t work out.
But the Pistons might be able to offer something different. A larger offensive role next to Cunningham on a young team eager to make a mark in the Eastern Conference.
For now, the Pistons remain in the hunt as they look to add another scorer who can give their offense another dimension heading into the 2026-27 season.
