The NBA trade market continues to shock fans and analysts alike, with unexpected moves shaking the league well into the summer of 2025. Central to the latest buzz is a potential DeMar DeRozan Sacramento Kings trade that may unfold if Sacramento finalizes a deal to acquire Golden State Warriors star Jonathan Kuminga. This possible exchange could reshape the Kings’ roster dramatically and alter DeRozan’s future in the league.
The Sacramento Kings have been involved in discussions surrounding a trade involving Jonathan Kuminga. According to NBA analyst Allen Stiles, there is speculation of a “handshake agreement” between the Kings and DeRozan that would see the veteran star moved once Kuminga joins the team. This development would mark a significant pivot for Sacramento as they consider restructuring around younger talent.
Potential Agreement Could Lead to DeRozan’s Departure from Sacramento
Allen Stiles shared his insight on the situation during a recent podcast, stating,
“I believe, this is specifically me, that there is a handshake agreement between DeMar DeRozan and the Sacramento Kings. That is my belief. If Jonathan Kuminga is acquired by the Sacramento Kings, they will get their butts in gear as far as getting DeMar DeRozan to another team.”
The theory that Sacramento is prepared to part ways with DeRozan gains traction as the Kings aim to bring Kuminga, a promising young forward who fits a similar offensive profile. Stiles explained that the Kings may seek expiring contracts and second-round picks in exchange for the veteran scorer, possibly targeting contending teams to trade DeRozan.
DeRozan’s frustration with the Kings organization has been evident for some time. If the Kings acquire Kuminga, they will likely see less need for DeRozan’s skillset, since Kuminga offers a comparable score-first presence with more youth and upside. Additionally, at 35 years old, DeRozan remains an effective scorer but may no longer fit Sacramento’s long-term plans.
Jonathan Kuminga’s Contract Situation Fuels Trade Speculation
The uncertainty surrounding Jonathan Kuminga’s commitment to the Golden State Warriors has intensified trade rumors. Unlike many other free agents seeking contract extensions this year, Kuminga remains undecided about his future, reportedly demanding a more lucrative deal than what Golden State is willing to offer.
NBA insider Brett Siegel revealed,
“Kuminga’s camp want a big deal in the $30M+ range and don’t want to be back with Warriors. Golden State wants a small deal in $20M range where they can flip him because there’s no market. Dubs still holding out that a S&T with Bulls can happen. Ayo Dosunmu is a good player.”
This stalemate between Kuminga and the Warriors has stalled negotiations, prompting Golden State to explore trade options. Kuminga, coming off a season averaging 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 0.8 steals per game, represents a valuable young asset for teams willing to meet his demands.
The Kings could capitalize on this impasse by acquiring Kuminga and simultaneously moving DeRozan, thus refreshing their roster with youthful talent more aligned with their direction.
DeRozan Reflects on the NBA’s Evolution and Cultural Shift in Play Style
Alongside trade rumors, DeMar DeRozan recently commented on the significant changes in NBA gameplay compared to previous decades. DeRozan noted how the modern game heavily emphasizes three-point shooting, a style epitomized by Golden State’s Stephen Curry, whose revolutionary impact has shaped a generation of players.
DeRozan expressed concern about how this shift affects young players, stating,
“It’s tough. I remember when young guys were coming up the field discouraged because they had to go out there and be Stephen Curry all the time. Everybody just isn’t going to be Stephen Curry. There’s one Stephen Curry. What he is able to do is incredible. I think we will never see anybody else like that.”
He stressed that while Curry’s influence is undeniable, not all players can or should emulate his style, highlighting the importance of diversity in playing approaches. DeRozan’s remarks underline a tension between traditional physicality and the modern emphasis on perimeter shooting, a dynamic relevant as teams, like the Kings, balance roster moves in this evolving landscape.
The Implications of a Major Roster Shakeup in Sacramento
Should the Kings complete the trade for Jonathan Kuminga and subsequently move DeRozan, this would signal a strategic shift toward youth and athletic potential, aligning with Sacramento’s rebuilding goals. Trading DeRozan, a proven scorer with All-Star experience, could provide assets to acquire role players or picks, helping balance the roster salary-wise.
This move would also impact DeRozan’s career trajectory, moving him from a struggling Kings team to possibly a contender needing veteran scoring. His ability to contribute at a high level even at 35 makes him an attractive target for playoff-caliber organizations seeking offensive depth.
Meanwhile, acquiring Kuminga would inject fresh energy and skill into the Kings’ lineup. Kuminga’s versatile scoring and athleticism provide a dynamic presence that complements Sacramento’s core. However, getting this deal done will require negotiation finesse, particularly around salaries and contract terms, given Kuminga’s demanding camp and the Warriors’ willingness to trade him only under certain conditions.
As the NBA trade market accelerates through the summer, all eyes will remain on Sacramento and Golden State. Fans and analysts await official announcements with the potential DeMar DeRozan Sacramento Kings trade positioned as one of the most significant moves of this busy offseason.