DeMar DeRozan has long expressed his desire to retire as a Toronto Raptor. The six-time All-Star made it clear in Open Gym that he wants to sign a one-day contract with Toronto when his career ends.
Kings Trade Rumors Make DeMar DeRozan Raptors Reunion ‘Likely
Demar DeRozan’s Retirement Plan: A Return to the Raptors
“It’s the only place I would want to go out as well,” DeRozan said. “I will never have an emotional connection in no other place like I had in Toronto.”
DeRozan played nine seasons in Toronto, forming a deep bond with the city and franchise. His commitment to the Raptors never wavered, even after his trade to San Antonio in 2018. His close friend and former teammate, Kyle Lowry, also intends to retire as a Raptor, cementing their legacy as one of the franchise’s greatest duos.
However, recent developments in Sacramento could bring DeRozan back to Toronto much earlier than expected.
De’Aaron Fox Trade Rumors Could Change DeRozan’s Path
The Sacramento Kings are reportedly exploring trades for De’Aaron Fox. The All-Star guard has not requested a trade but has declined a long-term extension. His 2026 free agency looms, and his unwillingness to commit long-term has put Sacramento in a difficult position.
Fox remains focused on winning a championship, and reports suggest he has a preferred destination: the San Antonio Spurs. If he does not get traded, he could sign with San Antonio in free agency, limiting Sacramento’s leverage in trade talks.
If the Kings trade Fox before the deadline, they may look to reshape their roster. That could include moving DeRozan, who has two years left on his contract.
Bruce Brown’s Expiring Contract Makes a Deal Possible
The Raptors could emerge as a landing spot for DeRozan due to their trade assets. Toronto holds Bruce Brown’s expiring contract, which matches almost perfectly with DeRozan’s deal. If Sacramento decides to pivot after a Fox trade, moving DeRozan to Toronto becomes a logical move.
DeRozan would provide the Raptors with veteran leadership as they transition into a more competitive phase. Toronto has struggled in close games this season, ranking third-worst in clutch win percentage. DeRozan, known for his clutch scoring, could immediately help in that area.
DeRozan’s Impact and Fit in Toronto
DeRozan remains an effective scorer. This season, he is averaging 21.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.2 steals on 57% true shooting Few players perform better in the clutch. He ranks seventh in clutch points this season and has a history of delivering in key moments.
The question is how DeRozan would fit alongside Toronto’s core. He operates best in the mid-range, an area where Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett also thrive. However, his veteran presence and ability to create his own shot could outweigh any spacing concerns.
A Reunion That Makes Sense for Both Sides
DeRozan has always intended to finish his career as a Raptor. While a one-day contract is his original plan, circumstances in Sacramento could accelerate the timeline. If Fox is traded, the Kings may decide to move DeRozan, and Toronto has the pieces to make a deal.
A trade would allow DeRozan to compete for a playoff spot while playing for the team he loves. The Raptors, in turn, would gain a proven clutch scorer and veteran leader. The fire hasn’t started yet, but the tools for a DeRozan-Raptors reunion are there.
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