The Sacramento Kings reportedly haven't discussed a potential buyout for DeMar DeRozan, but you can't help but wonder if that could all change after the season-ending injuries to both Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine. And if that were a route the two sides were willing to go down, the Miami Heat could make sense as a match made in basketball heaven.
While a buyout of DeRozan would seem unlikely right now, maybe there's a chance that could change with the latest developments in Sacramento. But even if a buyout doesn't happen now, with still one year left on his contract after this season, there's reason to believe that one could come to fruition during the offseason.
Either way, the Heat are almost certainly going to emerge as a possible landing spot for DeRozan. This is a team that has been interested in DeRozan in the past. If they can get him at a discount, you'd assume they'd express at least some interest again.
Should the Heat be interested in DeMar DeRozan if bought out?
Whether or not that would be the best possible path forward for the Heat remains to be seen. However, Miami is not generally the type of team that has declined the option to expedite its retooling process.
If the Heat whiff on Giannis Antetokounmpo during the summer (again), DeRozan could emerge as somewhat of a stopgap plan B until something better materializes.
And, honestly, if the Heat didn't have to invest in a multi-year contract for DeRozan, I don't think the fan base would hate it. Especially if the Heat doesn't want to double down on a complete rebuild of the roster, a one-year rental plan with DeRozan wouldn't be the worst-case scenario.
DeRozan is no longer in the prime of his career, but he's still quite productive. DeRozan is averaging 19 points and four assists on 49 percent shooting from the field and 34 percent shooting from 3-point range this season for the Kings.
If the Heat are forced to move on from Norman Powell and/or Tyler Herro, ultimately miss out on a superstar player, and are looking for a one-year veteran stopgap this summer, DeRozan could be the perfect candidate for the job.
Again, there are lots of variables that would have to fall into place for this to all come into fruition, but it all begins with the Kings' willingness to negotiate a buyout with DeRozan. And viceversa. A possibility that will only get more likely after this season.
And if DeRozan does hit the buyout market, the Heat will almost certainly keep a close eye on that situation.