The NBA’s free agency period has concluded, and DeMar DeRozan, a six-time All-Star, remains unattached. After parting ways with the Chicago Bulls, much like his previous exit from the San Antonio Spurs, DeRozan is in search of a new team. He’s not interested in a mid-level exception, preferring instead a sign-and-trade arrangement that could secure him a contract north of $20 million annually.
DeMar DeRozan enters the Golden 1 Center for the first time as a Sacramento King.
He sits with owner Vivek Ranadive courtside and is also greeted by Kings 13th overall pick Devin Carter. pic.twitter.com/Kas5AILj6z
— Matt George (@MattGeorgeSAC) July 7, 2024
Approaching his 35th birthday, DeRozan showcased his enduring value last season by averaging 24 points with a true shooting percentage of 58.4%. Despite limited cap space across the league, he is confident that a team will step up to secure his services.
The Sacramento Kings have been increasingly mentioned in discussions about DeRozan’s next move. Reports and speculations hint at the Kings’ front office actively seeking ways to bring him on board. They are exploring the possibility of involving a third team to facilitate a sign-and-trade deal, as the Bulls are not keen on adding salary.
Look at Sacramento Airport right now waiting for DeMar DeRozan to land. Kings fans are the best pic.twitter.com/NvYkSyj0NZ
— iamtheREALvegasMURPH (@RealMurphdog916) July 6, 2024
This pursuit by the Kings has attracted considerable attention, with various sports analysts labeling them as a surprising yet serious contender. The need for a third team complicates the process, but reports suggest that the Kings might have already identified a potential partner. There’s also talk of competition for DeRozan, indicating that multiple teams are interested in his skill set.
In addition, a related transaction saw the San Antonio Spurs trade player Devonte’ Graham and a draft pick to the Charlotte Hornets, a move aimed at clearing salary space, presumably to aid in facilitating these larger trade dynamics.
DeMar DeRozan, the newest King, cheered as a hero as he enters Sacramento’s Golden 1 Center for tonight’s California Classic with owner Vivek Ranadive. He meets Devin Carter and sits alongside his longtime agent Aaron Goodwin. pic.twitter.com/455B4efGLc
— Sean Cunningham (@SeanCunningham) July 7, 2024
As DeRozan potentially heads to Sacramento, discussions and meetings with team officials are reportedly underway. This move could significantly enhance the Kings’ offensive capabilities, which, after a peak performance in the 2022-23 season, saw a decline last year. While DeRozan might need to adjust his playing style to fit alongside stars like Domantas Sabonis and De’Aaron Fox, his willingness to adapt could be key. A potential shift towards more catch-and-shoot 3-point attempts could be beneficial, integrating well with the existing team dynamics.
Major Points
- DeMar DeRozan remains a free agent following the end of the NBA free agency moratorium, seeking a sign-and-trade deal rather than a mid-level exception.
- Despite nearing his 35th birthday, DeRozan demonstrated strong performance last season, averaging 24 points with a 58.4% true shooting percentage.
- The Sacramento Kings are actively exploring options to acquire DeRozan, possibly involving a third team to facilitate a sign-and-trade arrangement.
- There is notable interest from other teams in securing DeRozan’s services, indicating a competitive market for the veteran player.
- DeRozan’s potential addition to the Kings could enhance their offense, which experienced a decline last season, requiring adjustments to team dynamics.
TL Holcomb – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News