During the 2024 NBA offseason, DeMar DeRozan considered several options before deciding to sign with the Sacramento Kings. In an appearance on Paul George’s podcast, DeRozan revealed that the Philadelphia 76ers were one of the teams he seriously considered before making his decision. Along with the Sixers, other teams on his radar included the Lakers, Clippers, and the Miami Heat.
DeRozan’s comments highlighted the Sixers’ potential interest in adding him as a free agent, though they ultimately signed Paul George instead. Philadelphia had been looking to bolster its roster with an All-Star talent, but George’s addition meant the team’s salary cap space was used up, making DeRozan a less viable option due to his hefty contract demands.
DeRozan, who signed a three-year deal worth $73.8 million with the Kings, is coming off three challenging seasons with the Chicago Bulls. Despite this, his 15-year NBA career includes six All-Star appearances, and his move to Sacramento marks a new chapter for the California native.
Interestingly, the Sixers had also shown interest in DeRozan before the 2024 trade deadline, but their ability to pursue him dwindled after George’s acquisition. With the combination of George, Joel Embiid, and Tyrese Maxey already taking up significant cap space, a move for DeRozan became impossible.
Despite the missed opportunity, DeRozan continues to stay connected with Sixers players. He was recently seen working out with his former Raptors teammate, Kyle Lowry, who now plays for Philadelphia. While DeRozan won’t be joining the Sixers for the time being, the door for future possibilities may remain open.
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