The Portland Trail Blazers will not sign free agent DeMar DeRozan, according to NBA insider Marc Stein. This rumor killer emerges as the team deals with a crowded guard rotation and a tough stretch of recent results, including a 114-95 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on April 29, 2026.
Why are the Trail Blazers not signing DeMar DeRozan?
Portland's backcourt is overloaded following a surprising offseason trade. The team acquired Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant. He joins Jrue Holiday, Scoot Henderson, and a returning Damian Lillard in the guard unit for next season. Adding another guard does not address the team's needs. It makes more sense for Portland to target an impact swingman or small forward instead.
DeRozan became a free agent after the Sacramento Kings released him last month. His two-year stint in Sacramento was disappointing. The six-time All-Star seemed like a bad fit for their roster construction and system.
What does this mean for Portland's roster construction?
The decision to pass on DeRozan clarifies the front office's planning. They are prioritizing frontcourt depth over backcourt scoring. This aligns with the current roster's obvious imbalance. With four high-usage guards, playing time and chemistry would be challenging to manage.
DeRozan could have been slotted in at the small forward spot. He would have provided a proven scorer that defenses must respect. However, his defensive limitations and need for the ball in his hands likely clashed with the existing personnel. The team's recent form of 1 win and 4 losses in their last five games, including three consecutive losses, highlights broader issues beyond just adding one scorer.
What is next for the Portland Trail Blazers?
With the DeRozan speculation closed, Portland must look elsewhere to improve. The focus will be on the forward positions through free agency or trades. Internal development from younger players on the roster becomes even more important.
The team needs to regroup after finishing the season on a low note. Fans can track the team's offseason moves and updated roster on our [squad](/squad) page. Building a more balanced team around their star guards is the clear offseason mandate.
Improving their perimeter defense and three-point shooting should be targets. The Trail Blazers have the pieces for a potent offense, but consistency has been a problem. Last season's results show they have work to do to climb the [standings](/standings) in a competitive Western Conference.
How reliable is this report?
The information comes from veteran reporter Marc Stein, a respected NBA insider. His reporting typically carries significant weight around the league. He stated explicitly that Portland is not currently pursuing the free agent swingman.
This directly contradicts earlier rumors that had linked the two parties. Those rumors likely stemmed from Portland's need for a veteran wing and DeRozan's availability. Stein's report acts as a definitive denial from the Trail Blazers' side of the equation.
For now, the DeMar DeRozan chapter appears closed for Portland. The front office will now channel its resources into other avenues for roster improvement ahead of the next campaign.
