DeMar DeRozan's Future with the Kings: A Buyout or a Trade?
The Sacramento Kings have made it clear that if DeMar DeRozan remains with the team past the trade deadline, they have no plans to buy him out of his current contract. This decision comes after a report suggested DeRozan as a potential buyout candidate in the upcoming month. However, league sources have confirmed that no discussions have taken place with DeRozan's side regarding a buyout.
DeRozan's contract, signed in the summer of 2014, is in its second year of a three-year deal. He is set to earn $25.7 million next season, with only $10 million guaranteed. This partial guarantee provides the Kings with flexibility. If DeRozan stays beyond the deadline, the team can explore trading him or opt to shed some salary this summer.
Despite the trade deadline looming, DeRozan has been available to the team, and his professionalism has been praised by teammates, coaches, and executives. Despite the regime change and challenging environment, he has remained productive and positive. DeRozan's performance this season is impressive, averaging 19.2 points in 51 games and becoming the 23rd player in NBA history to reach 26,000 career points.
The question remains: will the Kings pursue a buyout or explore trade options for DeRozan? The team's decision will impact DeRozan's future and the team's salary structure. As the deadline approaches, the NBA world awaits the Kings' next move, leaving fans and analysts alike curious about the potential outcomes.