The Los Angeles Lakers continue to build around Luka Dončić, with several moves to help support their centerpiece as the franchise looks to contend for a title next season.
After watching LeBron James depart in free agency, the Lakers continue to shuffle their roster.
However, according to the latest reports, the franchise is not keen on signing a six-time All-Star.
Lakers’ Team Building Strategy Around Luka Dončić Excludes DeMar DeRozan
The Sacramento Kings waived six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan on Monday, making him one of the most notable names to enter free agency. The former Toronto Raptors star arrived in Sacramento in 2024 as part of a three-team trade, and the Kings free up significant cap space by waiving him.
With DeRozan now on the open market, several playoff contenders are expected to show interest.
But according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the Lakers are not expected to pursue DeRozan as part of their revamp.
“The Los Angeles Lakers are not considered to be a potential landing spot for veteran guard DeMar DeRozan after he was released by Sacramento in Monday, multiple league sources told ESPN. The Southern California native had dialogue with LAL in the past – notably in 2021,” McMenamin posted.
As DeRozan starred for USC and grew up in Compton, California, many believed returning home to play for the Lakers or the Los Angeles Clippers could be a realistic possibility.
However, the scenario is unlikely to happen, as Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer also reported that the Clippers are not considered a serious contender for DeRozan.
Fischer also highlighted that the Lakers are instead prioritizing younger players, such as Jonathan Kuminga, and focusing on building a roster that better aligns with Dončić.
The update was welcomed by several NBA analysts, including Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor.
“Not surprised. DeRozan is an extremely poor fit with Luka Dončić,” O’Connor wrote.
Not surprised. DeRozan is an extremely poor fit with Luka Donic.
— Kevin O’Connor (@KevinOConnor) July 7, 2026
Despite his age, DeRozan was a productive scorer in the league. Last season, he averaged 18.4 points while shooting nearly 50% from the field.
Throughout 1,264 career games with the Toronto Raptors, San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls, and Kings, DeRozan has recorded averages of 21.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.0 steals per game.
He has also built a reputation for durability, playing in at least 70 games in each of the past five seasons.
As for DeRozan’s potential next destination, Fischer highlighted that the Miami Heat and the Raptors are the two teams most worth watching in the race for the veteran star, pointing to “excitement in Toronto” about a possible reunion.
