Despite controlling the fifth overall pick, which ended up being Keaton Wagler, Michael Scotto of ‘HoopsHype’ reported that 36-year-old multi-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan could possibly be stretch-and-waved by the Sacramento Kings, and if he is, the LA Clippers are among the destinations interested. Years ago, the Clippers could’ve really used him. But, at the beginning of a youth movement, DeRozan doesn’t offer the Clippers anything they need; he can’t shoot three-pointers efficiently, demands touches, and isn’t the best of playoff performers.
Trading Kawhi Leonard, a rumor that is beginning to take on legs, would put the Clippers in an even less favorable position to think adding DeRozan is worth it.
It doesn’t make any sense, and would likely turn out just like the Clippers’ experiments with John Wall, Russell Westbrook, and Bradley Beal.
DeMar DeRozan does not fit with the Clippers, even the slightest bit
Although there might be a team in the NBA, DeMar DeRozan, in 2026, does fit in; it’s most definitely not the LA Clippers. The worst part is that there are multiple reasons for this, making the reported interest seem even more questionable than it already is.
First off, the reason LA must avoid DeRozan the most is his age. He is too old, and following the excellent draft the Clippers just had, starring notable faces like Keaton Wagler and Baba Miller, there is no need to attempt to insert a player into the rotation that’s nearing retirement.
On top of that, the concerns with DeRozan correlate to his playstyle. For the most part, he’s not bad. He can score inside, make plays on offense, and bring solid energy defensively. But the red flag he does have, which diminishes all of the positives, is his three-point shooting.
DeRozan is a wing player in an era of basketball that demands good three-point shooting to be impactful. He does not fall under that category, as he’s shot under 34% from a distance in each of the last four seasons, and has never eclipsed 35.2% throughout his 17-year career.
That’s inexcusable, and because he will need minutes, the Clippers will end up witnessing a liability on the court with DeRozan if he is actually put on the team.
So, instead of chasing DeRozan, the Clippers should use their time in the offseason wisely and invest in players who can contribute to the team.
Aspects like youth, explosiveness, three-point shooting, and point-of-attack defense are among the things to look for.
