More Than the Money: DeMar DeRozan's Future Uncertain Amid Kings Rebuild
More Than the Money: DeMar DeRozan's Future Uncertain Amid Kings Rebuild
The Sacramento Kings have officially closed the books on a disappointing 22-60 season, finishing 14th in the Western Conference and heading back into the lottery. While the youth movement is in full swing in the capital city, the focus has shifted to the veteran leadership of DeMar DeRozan. As the Kings look to overhaul a roster that struggled on both ends of the floor, rumors are swirling that DeRozan’s tenure in Sacramento may be nearing its end.
DeRozan finished the 2025-26 campaign averaging 18.4 points, 4.1 assists, and 2.9 rebounds—his lowest scoring average since 2013. Despite the dip in stats, DeRozan remained a model of professional consistency, playing in 77 games for a team that was frequently outmatched. However, with the Kings' front office reportedly prioritizing a "historical tanking season" for the 2027 draft and DeRozan entering the final year of a partially guaranteed contract, a trade to a contender appears increasingly likely this summer.
The Goal of a Champion
In his end-of-season remarks, DeRozan was candid about his motivations at this stage of his career. He emphasized that his goals go far beyond financial compensation, stating that he is driven by the desire to compete for a championship—a goal that currently feels lightyears away in Sacramento. The Kings' roster, which features Zach LaVine and Russell Westbrook, failed to find chemistry this season, resulting in a defensive rating that ranked near the bottom of the league.
Building Around the Youth
Kings General Manager Scott Perry and head coach Doug Christie have expressed a desire to build around Keegan Murray and rookie Maxime Raynaud. Raynaud, who was recently named Rookie of the Month for March, has shown flashes of being a cornerstone big man, averaging 12.5 points and 7.5 rebounds. Murray, however, missed the final stretch of the season with an ankle sprain, and his development remains the team's top priority. Moving DeRozan's $25 million expiring deal could provide the Kings with the assets needed to accelerate this youth-led transition.
A Popular Trade Target
If the Kings decide to move the six-time All-Star, they will likely find no shortage of suitors. A veteran scorer who can still "get a bucket on his own" is a valuable commodity for any playoff-bound team. Whether the Kings choose to trade him for draft capital or waive him and take a $10 million penalty, the consensus is that DeRozan deserves to spend his final seasons in a winning environment. For Sacramento, the 2026 offseason will be a referendum on their long-term vision and whether they can finally build a winner around their emerging stars.
