DeMar DeRozan is still out there, and now Washington is poking around.
The Wizards have emerged as a potential landing spot for the 36-year-old guard, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. He reported that Washington has had conversations with DeRozan in recent days, which makes sense if you squint at their roster. They’re trying to compete around Anthony Davis, Trae Young and rookie AJ Dybantsa. Adding a veteran scorer who can still get buckets feels like a logical next step.
DeRozan spent the last two years in Sacramento after signing with the Kings in 2024. He was steady as ever last season, playing 77 games and averaging 18.4 points, 4.1 assists and 2.9 rebounds. His shooting splits were solid: 49.7 percent from the field, 32 percent from three and 86.8 percent from the line. Not bad for a guy entering his 18th NBA season.
The six-time All-Star was the No. 9 pick in the 2009 draft and has spent the bulk of his career as a reliable scoring threat. He’s averaged 21.1 points for his career on 47.1 percent shooting. He also has seven playoff runs under his belt, so he knows what March and April feel like.
Washington isn’t the only team in the mix. Miami, Cleveland and Denver have all been mentioned as possible suitors. The Heat could use another shot-creator next to Jimmy Butler. The Cavs might want a veteran wing who can still get to his spots. Denver? They lost Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and have been looking for backcourt help all summer.
DeRozan reached a contract buyout with the Kings earlier this month, which opened the door for all this speculation. He’s still one of the better options left on the market, especially for teams that need a mid-range scorer who can draw fouls and run the offense for stretches.
The Wizards are an interesting fit because they’re not exactly a contender yet, but they’re clearly trying to push. Davis and Young give them a legitimate star duo, and Dybantsa could be the long-term play. DeRozan wouldn’t be a rental — he’d be part of the push to matter again in the East.
Nothing is finalized yet. But DeRozan’s phone is ringing, and Washington is on the line.
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