There's no doubt that DeMar DeRozan will no longer be wearing a Sacramento Kings jersey by the time the 2026-2027 season starts. Apparently, it's not happening soon enough for Deebo, who would like the front office to pick up the pace. This will happen, but on the Kings' time and not DeRozan's.
Everyone knows that the Kings are on a rebuild path that DeRozan doesn't fit. It's not a big deal, nor is it a slight on his abilities in the least. Even going into season 18, DeRozan remains one of the most respected shooters in the league, particularly from mid-range where he's borderline lethal.
When any team in any league goes through a rebuild, a lot of good players get caught in the crossfire. DeRozan has to go to make room for new players that the Kings are drafting, signing in free agency, or trading for. That being said, there is more to this situation than just the rebuild.
It has been reported over the past year that head coach Doug Christie isn't getting along particularly well with some of the veterans on his roster. That includes DeRozan as well as Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis. That may be fueling DeRozan's desire to get out of Sacramento quickly.
DeRozan is likely worried about the league leaving him behind
The big problem for DeRozan is how quickly things are changing in the NBA this offseason. There has been a barrage of major trades and signings in the past few days. That includes the Celtics' incomprehensible decision to trade Jaylen Brown to the 76ers for Paul George.
Every move a team makes cuts off a potential destination for DeRozan. The Kings are trying to trade DeRozan, but it doesn't seem to be going well. They also have the option to waive him and spread his salary over the next three years, which would put him in the free agency mix right now.
Each team in the league knows that the Kings will eventually waive DeRozan, so they're likely waiting for that to happen. A new team could sign DeRozan for a veteran minimum that's much lower than his current contract with the Kings. That doesn't change all the doors closing to DeRozan while he waits.
It makes sense that DeRozan would like the Kings to move this process along, but they have to do what's right for them. His run in Sacramento is all but over. The Kings know that and would like to get something in exchange for him before he leaves. This will happen on the Kings' clock, not his.
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