Kings waive DeMar DeRozan; Heat expected to show interest

The DeMar DeRozan era in Sacramento is over.

The Kings have waived the six-time All-Star after failing to find a trade partner, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. DeRozan is expected to clear waivers and become an unrestricted free agent, where he should draw interest from several playoff hopefuls.

Among them? The Heat.

Miami has repeatedly been linked to DeRozan throughout the offseason, with the Sun-Sentinel’s Ira Winderman previously reporting the Heat are expected to have interest if the veteran wing reached free agency.

Now, he’ll get that chance.

DeRozan, who turns 37 in August, remains one of the NBA’s most dependable scorers despite entering the later stages of his career. He appeared in 77 games for Sacramento last season, averaging 18.4 points, 4.1 assists and 2.9 rebounds while continuing to rank among the league’s most reliable late-game shot creators.

The Kings had explored trade options with DeRozan and his representatives, but no deal materialized. By moving on now, Sacramento gains significant financial flexibility as it continues reshaping its roster around a younger core.

As for DeRozan, the expectation around the league has long been that he’d prioritize joining a contender if he became available.

The Heat are an obvious possibility, but they likely won’t be alone. Teams looking for veteran scoring, leadership and another reliable half-court option figure to make calls once DeRozan officially hits the market.

One thing is certain — what had been speculation is now reality. DeRozan is a free agent, and one of the more intriguing veteran pursuits of the offseason is officially underway.

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