It's safe to say that the Sacramento Kings are not shocking anyone this season. Fans and media alike were rightfully concerned going into 2025-2026. That didn't stop DeMar DeRozan from calling those doubters out with preseason comments that have absolutely not aged well.
The problems with the Kings are not new by any stretch of the imagination. These issues predate the tenure of Vivek Ranadive as co-owner, though his time in charge has arguably made these same issues much, much worse. Things certainly haven't shown any signs of turning around.
For years, the front office has focused on stocking the Kings' pond with shoot-first guards who don't pass, don't rebound, and don't play defense. This has created a team that has trouble generating sustained, impactful offense and plays defense about as well as a baby in a soccer net.
The other issue is that the Kings have done a terrible job developing young players, instead focusing on pushing veterans. They have one of the oldest rosters in the league thanks to six players over 30, two of which are damn near 40. It's neither a win now roster nor a win in the future roster.
DeMar DeRozan talked big about the Kings
Pretty much everyone saw this brutal Sacramento season coming, from NBA executives to sports writers to fans. That didn't stop DeMar DeRozan from calling them all out in the preseason. He took issue with the lack of faith people seemed to have in his team and had bold comments about it.
DeMar DeRozan didn't hold back when talking about last season, calling it a "shit show".
— Matt George (@MattGeorgeSAC) September 29, 2025
He says it's way better now. A total reset heading into Sacramento Kings training camp.
He also says the media narrative that the Kings wont be very good pisses him off. pic.twitter.com/MzuQAlUioR
It's hard to blame him for that at all. No player in their right mind is going to stand in front of reporters and talk about how terribly their team is going to do this season. That's a good way to get fined, suspended, and possibly even fired. Coaches want players who buy into the program.
At the same time, some of DeRozan's tough talk really hasn't aged well. While other Kings' players and coaches discussed their big expectations for 2025-2026, DeRozan in particular came across as especially frustrated about the narrative that things weren't going to go well in Sactown.
To be fair, there is a lot of basketball left to play this season, and the possibility remains that the Kings could turn things around. It's not impossible, just highly improbable without some major changes. Regardless, DeRozan's passion is appreciated, but comments like that live forever online.