The Los Angeles Clippers are going through a brutal start to the 2025-26 NBA season. Injuries have impacted their early trajectory, and an inconsistent offense and defense have led to more losses than they had anticipated.
This has led to trade rumors circulating about what Los Angeles can do to revamp the squad and improve its quality of play. One of their options could involve a Sacramento Kings veteran star currently under a three-year, $73,890,000 contract. That player happens to be DeMar DeRozan.
The Interest Clippers Have in DeMar DeRozan
The Clippers are limited in overall depth following the season-ending injury to Bradley Beal, who was going to have a crucial role in the offense. In addition to having the oldest roster in the league, the team’s weaknesses have been on full display, even when Kawhi Leonard and James Harden are on the court together.
This is where DeRozan could come into the picture, according to NBA insider Sam Amick. He reviewed the veteran wing’s contract details, considering the possibility that Los Angeles could pursue his services. He also mentioned Malik Monk and Keon Ellis, players that would have solid interest if they were on the trading block.
“DeMar DeRozan, the 36-year-old who league sources say has some interest from the LA Clippers, has a partial guarantee on his deal for next season (approximately $10 million of his $25.7 million). Malik Monk, who was part of the Jonathan Kuminga trade talks with Golden State in the summer that are likely to be revisited, has a combined $41.7 million on his deal in the next two seasons (including a 2027-28 player option).
Amick added, “The list goes on from there, with fourth-year guard Keon Ellis ($2.3 million expiring deal) widely seen as one of the most coveted Kings players among rival teams.”
The Clippers are showing interest in DeMar DeRozan, per @sam_amick
“DeMar DeRozan, the 36-year-old who league sources say has some interest from the LA Clippers, has a partial guarantee on his deal for next season (approximately $10 million of his $25.7 million). Malik Monk,… pic.twitter.com/UrSWnpWetr
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 24, 2025
DeRozan is going through his 17th season in the league, his second with the Kings. He stands out as one of the best scorers for his age, continuing to have a vital role in the offenses he’s been part of. With 17 games played, he is averaging 17.9 points, 3.6 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game. He is shooting 49.5% from the field, including 36.1% from beyond the arc, and 87.7% from the free-throw line.
DeRozan is in the second year of his three-year contract with the Kings. He will be an unrestricted free agent in the 2027 offseason if he decides not to extend his stay in Sacramento.
What’s Next for Clippers Amid DeMar DeRozan Rumors?
It would be an intriguing avenue for the Clippers to take if they pursue DeMar DeRozan. He certainly provides great value on offense, but his defensive issues could hold them back from carrying out a deal. Not only that, but his age may only further emphasize the problems that the roster already has in that aspect.
Los Angeles has a 5-12 record on the season, holding the 12th spot in the Western Conference standings. They are above the Dallas Mavericks by 0.5 games and the Kings by one game, while trailing the Utah Jazz by 0.5 games and the Memphis Grizzlies by one game.
They have significantly underperformed on both sides of the ball. Los Angeles ranks 26th in scoring offense (111.8), 19th in scoring defense (117.2), 21st in offensive rating (114.4), and 24th in defensive rating (119.9).
The Clippers will prepare for their next matchup, which will be on the road. They face the Lakers on Nov. 25 at 11 p.m. ET as part of the NBA Cup group stage.
