Rob Pelinka, Los Angeles Lakers
Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images
Rob Pelinka, Los Angeles Lakers
At the trade deadline, the Los Angeles Lakers were linked to a wide range of wing options before ultimately making a smaller move to acquire Luke Kennard.
While Kennard was not among the most heavily reported targets, he immediately addressed a clear need for perimeter shooting. Defensive concerns, however, remained unresolved.
Importantly, Kennard’s expiring contract allowed the Lakers to preserve their projected financial flexibility.
According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, Los Angeles is still expected to have approximately $51 million in cap space this summer, even after accounting for Austin Reaves’ $20.9 million free agent hold.
That figure remains dependent on LeBron James’ future, as his potential departure in unrestricted free agency would significantly reshape the team’s financial outlook.
Regardless, the Lakers appear poised to continue exploring perimeter upgrades during the offseason.
Lakers Set to Revisit Wing Market With Major Cap Flexibility
NBA insider Jake Fischer and ESPN’s Dave McMenamin have both reported that the Lakers are expected to pursue restricted free agent forwards Peyton Watson and Tari Eason this offseason.
Armed with significant cap space, Los Angeles could apply pressure on the Denver Nuggets and Houston Rockets by presenting aggressive offer sheets, forcing both franchises into difficult financial decisions.
While much of the attention has focused on Watson and Eason, along with links to Andrew Wiggins, another notable name has quietly emerged as a potential option.
According to ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel, Sacramento Kings forward DeMar DeRozan and his representatives have explored potential pathways to join either the Lakers or Clippers, a scenario that could resurface this summer.
“At the trade deadline, there were some whispers that DeRozan and his camp were exploring ways to get him to one of the two Los Angeles-based teams (Lakers, Clippers), sources said,” Siegel wrote. “While nothing ever really materialized on that front, it is worth noting that DeRozan is from Compton, California, and he has long wanted to finish his career in Los Angeles.”
“I would not anticipate DeRozan being bought out at this point, especially since his contract for next season is partially guaranteed for $10 million. How the Kings navigate this situation in the offseason will be interesting.”
DeRozan’s Contract Situation Adds Complexity to Potential Move
Through 61 games this season, DeRozan is averaging 18.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 49.2% from the field and 33.3% from three-point range.
The six-time All-Star is currently in the second year of a three-year, $73.7 million contract. He is earning $24.5 million this season and is set to receive $25.7 million in 2026-27.
Sacramento was previously reported to be “eager” to move DeRozan’s contract dating back to the offseason, though no deal ultimately materialized before the deadline.
While a buyout could theoretically open the door to a move to the Lakers or Clippers, Siegel reported that the Kings have “no interest” in pursuing that route ahead of the March 1 deadline, and are instead expected to revisit his situation in the offseason.
Even at 36-years-old, DeRozan remains a productive and reliable scorer who could still provide meaningful offensive value to the Lakers or another playoff team.
However, his $25 million salary and trade-only availability complicate his pathway to a preferred destination.
Although DeRozan may desire a return to his hometown of Los Angeles, the broader landscape may work against such a move.
The Clippers appear to be trending towards a roster reset, while the Lakers may prioritize younger, defense-oriented wings who better align with their long-term roster construction.
The Lakers have also been reported to be planning an “all-out pursuit” of Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason, a scenario that would command the majority of their assets and attention, certainly leaving a DeRozan reunion as a secondary consideration.