Sources: In $74M Trade, Sacramento Kings Secure DeMar DeRozan
Sacramento Kings Acquire DeMar DeRozan
The Sacramento Kings are making headlines with their acquisition of free agent guard DeMar DeRozan in a three-year, $74 million sign-and-trade deal. This strategic move aims to bolster their offensive firepower in the competitive Western Conference. Sources revealed that the Kings are sending forward Harrison Barnes and an unprotected 2031 pick swap to the San Antonio Spurs, along with guard Chris Duarte, two second-round draft picks, and cash to the Chicago Bulls.
DeRozan's Impressive Track Record
DeMar DeRozan, a six-time All-Star, brings a wealth of experience and skill to the Kings. Turning 35 next month, DeRozan is coming off an impressive stint with the Chicago Bulls. Over the past three seasons, he consistently demonstrated his scoring prowess, earning All-Star selections in the first two years and averaging 24 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists this past season. His clutch performances have not gone unnoticed, as he finished second to Stephen Curry in the 2024 NBA Clutch Player of the Year Award voting.
Building a Stronger Offensive Unit
The Kings’ pursuit of DeRozan is part of a broader strategy to create a more explosive offensive team. By partnering DeRozan with All-Star guard De’Aaron Fox, All-Star center Domantas Sabonis, and promising young forward Keegan Murray, the Kings hope to elevate their performance and secure a stronger position in the Western Conference. DeRozan’s versatility and scoring ability are expected to complement Fox’s playmaking and Sabonis’s inside presence, creating a formidable trio on the court.
Meeting with Kings' Officials
DeRozan traveled to Sacramento to meet with team officials and head coach Mike Brown, who recently signed an offseason contract extension. Brown’s leadership has been instrumental in the Kings’ recent success, guiding the franchise to back-to-back winning seasons for the first time since 2006. The addition of DeRozan signals the Kings’ commitment to building on this momentum and making a significant push in the upcoming season.
DeRozan's Career Highlights
DeRozan’s NBA journey began when he was selected as the ninth pick in the 2009 NBA Draft by the Toronto Raptors. Over his 15-season career, he has played for the Raptors, San Antonio Spurs, and Chicago Bulls. His career averages of 21.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game underscore his consistency and impact on the court. A three-time All-NBA selection, DeRozan’s experience and leadership will be invaluable to the Kings’ aspirations.
Spurs Acquire Harrison Barnes
In exchange for DeRozan, the San Antonio Spurs are bringing on Harrison Barnes, a seasoned forward with a championship pedigree. Barnes, 32, played 82 games in each of the past two seasons with the Kings, averaging 12.2 points and three rebounds per game while shooting 47.4% overall and 38.7% from beyond the arc. His reliable performance and experience, including an NBA title with the Golden State Warriors in 2015, make him a valuable addition to the Spurs, who are also welcoming free agent Chris Paul and Rookie of the Year Victor Wembanyama.
Barnes' Career Overview
Harrison Barnes has had a steady and impactful NBA career since being selected as the seventh pick in the 2012 draft by the Golden State Warriors. Over his career, he has averaged 14 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. Barnes spent 5½ seasons with the Kings after being traded from the Dallas Mavericks, consistently contributing to the team’s performance. His move to the Spurs, who will absorb his contract using their remaining cap space, signifies a new chapter in his career.
Chris Duarte Joins the Bulls
As part of the trade deal, guard Chris Duarte is heading to the Chicago Bulls. Duarte, 27, averaged 3.9 points in 59 games last season with the Kings. Acquired from the Indiana Pacers last summer for two second-round picks, Duarte brings potential and depth to the Bulls’ roster. His addition, along with the second-round draft picks and cash considerations, will provide the Bulls with valuable assets as they continue to rebuild and strengthen their team.
Conclusion
The acquisition of DeMar DeRozan marks a significant step for the Sacramento Kings as they aim to enhance their offensive capabilities and make a strong playoff push in the Western Conference. By adding a proven scorer and experienced leader like DeRozan, the Kings are poised to build on their recent successes and compete at a higher level. Meanwhile, the San Antonio Spurs and Chicago Bulls gain valuable assets in Harrison Barnes and Chris Duarte, respectively, positioning themselves for future growth and competitiveness in the league.
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