Report: Kings don't intend to buy out DeRozan
The Sacramento Kings don't plan to buy out DeMar DeRozan if he isn't dealt before Thursday's trade deadline, sources told ESPN's Anthony Slater.
The Kings, who own the Association's worst record (12-39), traded guards Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday.
Meanwhile, three-time All-Star center Domantas Sabonis has also been at the center of trade rumors.
DeRozan joined the Kings on a three-year, $73.7-million contract in July 2024 as part of a three-team sign-and-trade deal with the San Antonio Spurs and Chicago Bulls.
His contract expires after next season. He's set to make $25.7 million in 2026-27, but only $10 million is guaranteed.
DeRozan is averaging 19.2 points on 50.6% shooting to go along with 3.9 assists, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.2 steals over 51 appearances this season.
The 36-year-old is knocking down 50% of his field goals from mid-range, which ranks in the 88th percentile among wings, according to Cleaning the Glass.
On Jan. 14, DeRozan passed Kevin Garnett for 22nd on the NBA's all-time scoring list during a game versus the New York Knicks.
The Toronto Raptors selected DeRozan with the ninth overall pick in 2009. He's earned six All-Star selections and three All-NBA nods over his 17-year career.