After joining the Sacramento Kings just one season ago, veteran forward DeMar DeRozan may soon be on the move again. Following a productive stint with the Chicago Bulls, DeRozan is now reportedly at the center of trade discussions that have gained momentum over the summer. The possibility of a Jonathan Kuminga Sacramento Kings trade appears to be the key catalyst influencing DeRozan’s potential departure.
NBA insider Allen Stiles revealed on Sactown Sports 1440 that there could already be a verbal agreement between DeRozan and the Kings pointing toward his exit. According to Stiles, securing free agent Jonathan Kuminga would trigger swift actions to send DeRozan elsewhere.
And I believe, now this is specifically me, I believe 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, the Sacramento Kings will get their butts in gear as far as getting DeMar DeRozan to another team,
Allen Stiles said.
Stiles further speculated on the possible trade mechanics, pointing to talks involving the Miami Heat and a salary dump scenario with Terry Rozier. While the return may not match DeRozan’s talent, this move would allow him to join a contender and create salary cap flexibility for the Kings.
And I know that we’ve brought up before the situation with the Miami Heat, right? And do you just take Terry Rozier in two seconds, and is it essentially a salary dump? Obviously, you’re not getting a player back that’s as good as DeMar DeRozan, but DeMar DeRozan gets to go to a contender. You’re going to get money that’s eventually going to come off the books if Terry Rozier even plays,
Allen Stiles added.
DeRozan Recalls Emotional Impact of Raptors Trade
DeMar DeRozan has been recognized for his loyalty during his nine seasons with the Toronto Raptors, where he was drafted in 2009 and became a four-time All-Star. In a recent interview on 7PM in Brooklyn, he spoke openly about the shock and pain of being traded from the franchise where his NBA career began.
I get traded from Toronto in the middle of the night. I’m sick… I called this motherf***** [Rudy Gay], right? I said, Yeah, bro. These n***** just traded me.
DeRozan recalled.
N**** said, HAHAHA’,
he added.
Since leaving Toronto, DeRozan’s career has taken him through the San Antonio Spurs, the Chicago Bulls, and now the Sacramento Kings. Despite the subsequent stops, his time with the Raptors remains a defining chapter of his professional journey.
Complications in Jonathan Kuminga’s Move as Warriors Negotiate Hard
Jonathan Kuminga’s trade to Sacramento has encountered hurdles reportedly stemming from friction behind the scenes. The Golden State Warriors are said to be playing tough in trade talks, complicating negotiations as multiple teams including the Bulls express interest. The situation reflects growing tension as contract discussions have stalled, leaving Kuminga’s future uncertain amid this prolonged standoff.
The outcome of these talks holds substantial implications for Sacramento’s roster strategy and DeRozan’s status with the team. Should the Kings finalize the acquisition of Kuminga, it is widely expected to accelerate DeRozan’s transfer to another franchise.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Jonathan Kuminga untouchable?
A. Kuminga can be traded, yet the Warriors hold him in high regard.
Q. Can Jonathan Kuminga speak French?
A. Two of his cousins are professional basketball players: Emmanuel Mudiay plays in Puerto Rico, and Omari Gudul plays in Europe. Kuminga speaks French as his first language and is still learning English.