The Sacramento Kings entered the 2024 offseason with high hopes after landing six-time NBA All-Star DeMar DeRozan, a move that was expected to elevate the team into serious playoff contention. However, the season didn’t unfold as planned. The Kings finished with a 40-42 record and missed the playoffs for the second straight year following their Play-In Tournament loss to the Dallas Mavericks. Despite the disappointment, DeRozan’s presence offered a glimmer of optimism for the franchise.
At 35 years old, DeMar DeRozan still delivered a strong season, averaging 22.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. However, he found himself caught in the middle of a turbulent year for the Kings. Midseason, the team dismissed head coach Mike Brown and traded away star point guard De’Aaron Fox. Now, they’ve also moved on from general manager Monte McNair, adding to the instability around the veteran forward.
DeRozan now finds himself on a vastly different roster than the one he originally signed on to join, raising questions about his future in Sacramento. During his postseason exit interview, DeRozan was asked about the departure of general manager Monte McNair.
“It kind of reflects the kind of season we had to go through from start to finish,” DeRozan said. “It still hasn’t fully sunk in… It’s definitely been a year.”
Following Wednesday’s season-ending loss, DeMar DeRozan once again emphasized that he’s nearing the final stages of his NBA career and wants to capitalize on the opportunities he has left. As he looks ahead, DeRozan shared what will factor into his decision about staying with the Kings.
“I’m looking for structure and a foundation built on competitiveness,” he said. “This season was filled with so much uncertainty—it’s hard to succeed in any environment when things are that unstable.”
If DeMar DeRozan is seeking stability, Sacramento may not be the ideal fit. The Kings endured a chaotic season—one that the 16-year veteran described as the most challenging of his career. All signs currently suggest DeRozan could be on his way out this offseason, though that could change depending on how things unfold.
The team is reportedly finalizing a deal to bring in veteran executive Scott Perry as the new general manager, a move that might influence DeRozan’s outlook on staying. Regardless, this offseason will be a pivotal one for the Kings as they decide on their future direction—with DeRozan’s status certain to be a major storyline.