DeMar DeRozan Confirms Kings Fans’ Beliefs in Defeat to Suns
The Sacramento Kings faced a challenging start to the 2025-2026 NBA season, suffering a defeat to the Phoenix Suns after relinquishing a 20-point lead. Despite this setback, DeMar DeRozan highlighted his enduring talent on the court, scoring 29 points and showcasing his versatility.
DeMar DeRozan’s Stellar Performance
DeRozan, entering his 17th NBA season, showcased elite skills reminiscent of his earlier days with the Toronto Raptors. In the recent game, he quickly became the first player on the Kings to reach double digits.
- Points: 29
- Rebounds: 6
- Assists: 9
- Steals: 2
- Blocks: 1
Significant Minutes on the Court
DeRozan logged an impressive 37 minutes and 25 seconds of play throughout the match, indicating his outstanding physical condition at 36 years old. The nearest teammate, Zach LaVine, played just over 34 minutes.
This level of endurance is commendable for a player with nearly two decades in the league. DeRozan not only contributed offensively but also displayed strong defensive skills, which are crucial for the Kings.
Future Prospects for DeRozan and the Kings
With no plans for retirement, DeRozan aims to lead by example and mentor younger players. His performance raises questions about the Kings’ apparent lack of interest in trading him during the offseason, especially with the recent arrival of Russell Westbrook, who is now in his 18th season.
Despite previous trade talks, both DeRozan and Westbrook ended up on the same roster, an unusual outcome given DeRozan’s talent. Teams may have hesitated due to high asking prices, which could explain the lack of interest.
The Kings find themselves in a beneficial position. If DeRozan maintains his current level of play, they can either support a talented veteran who can nurture rookies or potentially increase his trade value significantly. The decisions ahead will determine the direction of both DeRozan’s career and the Kings’ future.
