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Kings Plan to Waive-and-Stretch DeMar DeRozan if No Trade Materializes

The reported move would cut Sacramento’s near-term salary charge to manage apron constraints and let DeRozan become available when free agency opens on June 30.

Overview

  • Multiple outlets report on Tuesday that the Kings intend to waive DeMar DeRozan and stretch his salary over three years if they cannot find a trade.
  • DeRozan is entering his 18th season at age 37 after averaging 18.4 points and 4.1 assists in 77 games in 2025–26.
  • His contract for next season is $25.74 million with only $10 million guaranteed through January 10, which limits Sacramento’s short-term cash exposure from a stretch.
  • The Los Angeles Clippers are expected to show interest in signing DeRozan once he clears waivers and becomes eligible to sign on June 30, viewed as a low-risk veteran scoring and playmaking addition.
  • The Kings’ move is driven by a 22–60 season, projected apron status and a wider cost-cutting rebuild that includes exploring trades involving Zach LaVine and other roster changes.