DeMar DeRozan Draws Interest From Raptors, Spurs and Nuggets in Free Agency

DeMar DeRozan remains one of the most accomplished players available in NBA free agency, with speculation linking the veteran scorer to the Toronto Raptors, San Antonio Spurs and Denver Nuggets. While Denver’s interest has been reported, the possibilities involving Toronto and San Antonio appear to be driven more by history, roster needs and fan discussion than confirmed negotiations.

The Sacramento Kings waived DeRozan on July 6 after two seasons with the organization. The six-time All-Star averaged 18.4 points per game last season and has appeared in at least 74 games in each of the past five campaigns, showing that he can still provide dependable scoring and durability late in his career. According to Complex, DeRozan could consider accepting a smaller contract to join a team with a legitimate opportunity to compete for a championship.

Toronto fans began discussing a possible homecoming after DeRozan posted the cryptic message, “In closing, I remain the same. I come as I leave…” The Raptors selected him with the ninth overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft, and he became one of the most beloved players in franchise history before being traded to San Antonio in 2018. No formal talks between DeRozan and Toronto have been publicly confirmed.

https://twitter.com/DeMar_DeRozan/status/2084148343962546315

A return to the Spurs would carry similar sentimental appeal. DeRozan spent three seasons in San Antonio and left the organization on good terms, making him a familiar veteran option for a roster attempting to balance young talent with experienced leadership. However, the Spurs’ recent offseason spending could make finding the necessary financial room difficult.

Denver represents the most concrete possibility among the three teams after reports indicated that the Nuggets had expressed interest in DeRozan. The fit has since become more complicated, with Denver operating above the second salary-cap apron and adding Lonnie Walker IV to its roster, potentially reducing both the available money and role for another veteran wing.

At this stage of his career, DeRozan’s next decision may be influenced more by role and championship potential than salary alone. Toronto and San Antonio could offer meaningful reunion stories, while Denver would provide a clearer path toward competing deep into the postseason. For now, DeRozan remains unsigned, and none of the three possible destinations has emerged as a confirmed favorite.