As the summer winds down, it feels as if the Sacramento Kings might not make any more big moves. Could they take a serious run at Russell Westbrook or perhaps hold out hope for the Golden State Warriors to soften their stance on Jonathan Kuminga? Yes, of course that is possible, but it feels unlikely.
So it may really end up being a quiet offseason for the Kings, which gives people reason to believe the upcoming year could be tough. But Sacramento may be quite busy in a few months when the trade deadline rolls around. And when that time comes, DeMar DeRozan might be packing his bags.
The DeRozan rumors are heating up once again
Brett Siegel is reporting that DeRozan is expected to be a trade deadline asset for the Kings during the 2025-26 season. Fans know that this year's trade deadline could be very busy for the team, especially if they are in a bad spot when it rolls around. The 2025-26 deadline is on February 5, 2026, and, by that point, the Kings could be exceeding expectations or falling short of them.
DeMar DeRozan is expected to be a trade deadline asset for the Kings, per @BrettSiegelNBA
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) August 27, 2025
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We have heard about DeRozan being traded before. In fact, rumors about him leaving Sacramento started shortly after he arrived. And while they could get something substantial for him right now, the Kings might actually be wise to hold onto him until the deadline draws closer.
Why is that? It's because teams throughout the league will be more desperate as the season goes on, especially those frantic for a playoff spot. Think about teams like the Los Angeles Clippers or Milwaukee Bucks. When the deadline approaches, they might be willing to do a lot in order to get DeRozan. He has a team-friendly contract, plenty of experience, and a lot of upside if he's with the right squad.
Moving DeRozan in several months could be a win-win for the Kings and whoever they partner with. Until then, they are going to hold him in their back pocket. If he plays well and the Kings do better than expected, he might stick around. But if Sacramento is falling short and needs a big shake-up, multiple teams could give them exactly what they want.
Everyone knew DeRozan could be a trade chip, and the rumors about him have swirled around the league before. All Kings fans should keep a sharp eye on him when the deadline gets closer, because the DeRozan trade buzz is sure to grow.