The Sacramento Kings waived veteran forward DeMar DeRozan on July 6, 2026, making him an unrestricted free agent. At 37 years old, DeRozan enters the market with a clear desire to join a contender and add his veteran experience to a roster that can still compete for a championship.

DeRozan’s career has been defined by consistent scoring. Selected ninth overall in the 2009 NBA Draft, he has averaged at least 18 points per game in every season since 2012-13, earning a reputation as a "walking bucket" who can generate offense both as a starter and off the bench. Even as he approaches his late thirties, his shooting efficiency and ability to draw fouls remain valuable assets for any team.

The market is already buzzing with speculation about DeRozan’s next stop. Recent chatter has highlighted a potential return to Toronto, the franchise that drafted him, where he could reunite with longtime teammate Kyle Lowry. While Toronto remains a headline destination, several other clubs have expressed interest, recognizing that his scoring consistency and veteran poise could bolster a playoff-bound roster.

Indiana’s front office, which has been quietly reshaping its roster this offseason, could see DeRozan as a fitting piece. Adding a proven scorer who can create his own shot would provide the Pacers with additional offensive firepower and depth, particularly in the second unit. His experience in high-pressure situations aligns with a team that is looking to move beyond the fringe of the postseason and make a deeper run.

Because multiple teams are likely to pursue the former 9th-overall pick, the Pacers will need to act decisively if they want to secure his services. A timely offer that balances DeRozan’s desire to chase a title with Indiana’s long-term flexibility could turn the veteran into a key contributor and reshape the Eastern Conference landscape.

If the Pacers succeed in signing DeRozan, they will add a player who combines reliable scoring with veteran leadership. That combination could prove instrumental in pushing Indiana past the playoff threshold and giving the team a credible chance to compete in the postseason.