The Sacramento Kings are sliding fast, and the noise around their locker room is getting even louder. After briefly showing signs of life with two straight wins, the momentum disappeared again on Thursday night (Nov. 27) as they fell 112–100 to the Phoenix Suns. On top of that, they just lost 128-119 to the Utah Jazz.
At 5–15, their season is teetering, and league insiders believe the front office is preparing for a serious retool. One name keeps rising above the rest: DeMar DeRozan, the veteran scorer who suddenly looks like the Kings’ most movable piece.
Multiple Contenders Lined Up for DeMar DeRozan, Says NBA Insider
According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, DeRozan is emerging as the most realistic trade chip among the Kings’ big three, which also includes Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis.
His contract structure, production, and short-term appeal have made him a prime target for playoff hopefuls needing a steady scorer.
Siegel explained that DeRozan’s deal, which is worth $24.7 million this season with only $10 million guaranteed for the 2026-27 season, gives teams flexibility.
“DeRozan is making $24.7 million this season, and his contract is only guaranteed for $10 million next year… The Bucks need another dependable scoring option, and DeRozan could be that short-term answer as a better offensive player than Kuzma.”
He added that DeRozan’s portability is what separates him from the Kings’ other pricier names like LaVine or Sabonis. Siegel also suggested that the Kings could view the move as an opportunity to bring in young talent.
“Out of the three Kings stars, DeRozan is the most likely to be moved… trading for DeRozan will be a desperation move for any playoff team wanting a mid-range scorer to help lead their second unit.”
“From the Kings’ perspective, maybe DeRozan is a contract that could be dumped for them to pursue someone for their future, like Jonathan Kuminga or another young, dynamic player.”
And according to him, suitors are already lining up.
“Keep an eye on the Bucks, LA Clippers, Miami Heat, Portland Trail Blazers, and Memphis Grizzlies as suitable destinations for DeRozan.”
DeRozan, now 36, still profiles as a plug-and-play bucket-getter. He signed his three-year, $73.89 million contract with the Chicago Bulls before being traded to Sacramento, and his annual $24.75 million salary puts him in the sweet spot where contenders can match money without gutting their depth.
Both LaVine and Sabonis boast massive contracts; LaVine at $47.5 million and Sabonis on a $42.3 million yearly salary. DeRozan, on the other hand, is a veteran on a manageable deal who still provides instant offense and leadership without tying a team down long-term.
The Kings’ 5–15 collapse has accelerated the conversation dramatically. What looked like a playoff-caliber roster in preseason now feels stuck in neutral. The Kings are hitting the bottom in defensive rating (119.7), the offense is inconsistent, and frustration is reportedly brewing behind the scenes.
A deal isn’t guaranteed, but league executives increasingly view DeRozan as a one-year rental with upside, someone capable of swinging a playoff series in the right situation.
