What happened: The Sacramento Kings waived-and-stretched DeMar DeRozan's final contract year to send him into unrestricted free agency. The franchise and the six-time All-Star reached this resolution collaboratively.

Why it matters: Sacramento explored trade routes before opting for an outright release. The move creates immediate financial flexibility for the team while allowing contenders to pursue the wing.

What to watch: Front offices will now prepare contract offers for the upcoming 2026-27 season.