The Sacramento Kings are making waves in the NBA offseason, and their latest target is none other than six-time All-Star and three-time All-NBA selection, DeMar DeRozan. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski recently reported that the Kings are front-runners to acquire the Chicago Bulls forward in a sign-and-trade deal.
The Kings’ Ambitious Quest
Sacramento is on a mission to bolster its roster, aiming to add another star player alongside their core featuring De’Aaron Fox, Domantas Sabonis, Keegan Murray, and Malik Monk. DeRozan’s name has risen to the forefront of trade talks, and the Kings are actively pursuing a deal that would bring the veteran scorer to California’s capital city.
DeRozan’s Impressive Resume
DeRozan, a 15-year NBA veteran, has left his mark on the league. He spent nine seasons with the Toronto Raptors, three with the San Antonio Spurs, and most recently, three with the Chicago Bulls. Last season, he averaged 24.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, showcasing his scoring prowess and playmaking abilities. His midrange game remains lethal, making him a valuable asset for any team.
The Sign-and-Trade Scenario
The Kings are exploring a sign-and-trade arrangement with the Bulls, who are open to facilitating DeRozan’s desire for a contract exceeding the mid-level exception. However, Chicago is reluctant to take on significant contracts, necessitating a third team’s negotiation involvement. Sacramento appears to be the team to watch as the moratorium period ends.
Sacramento’s Vision
If the Kings secure DeRozan, they’ll gain an elite shot creator and playmaker on the wing. While his three-point shooting has been a weakness throughout his career, his improved jump shot in Chicago (33% from beyond the arc) adds versatility to his offensive arsenal. Pairing him with Fox could elevate Sacramento’s scoring potential and provide a veteran presence during crucial moments.
The Price Tag
DeRozan seeks a contract in the range of $20-25 million per year, a reasonable figure for a player of his caliber. A sign-and-trade would allow the Kings to acquire him without depleting their resources significantly. It’s a move that could pay dividends for a franchise hungry for success.
In the coming days, all eyes will be on Sacramento as they navigate the complexities of the sign-and-trade process. If successful, DeRozan’s arrival could signal a new era for the Kings—one where they aim higher and compete among the league’s elite.
