DeMar DeRozan’s decision to sign with the Sacramento Kings in free agency has been one of the most talked-about moves of the NBA offseason. While there is plenty of debate about how much DeRozan’s presence will improve the Kings as a playoff contender, the larger narrative is clear: A top-tier free agent chose Sacramento with the intention of winning. This is a significant turnaround for a franchise that, not long ago, was setting records for the most consecutive years without a playoff appearance.
In a recent conversation with Paul George on the Podcast P, DeRozan shared insights into his decision-making process and why Sacramento emerged as his top destination. DeRozan didn’t shy away from teasing George about having to wait for George’s decision before the free agency market could fully open up. But when it came to why he chose the Kings, DeRozan’s answer was straightforward: it was about winning.
“I was just looking for an opportunity to win at a high level, wherever that was going to be,” DeRozan said. “Sacramento showed real interest, genuine interest. When I sat back and looked at the team—great players, a great coach—I couldn’t ignore it. I remember the last couple of seasons watching them light the beam and win games, and I wanted to be part of that.”
DeRozan also admitted that Sacramento wasn’t his only option. He considered several other teams seriously. “Philly was an option, the Lakers were always an option, the Clippers were an option, and the Heat as well,” DeRozan shared, noting that these teams were all legitimate contenders for his signature.
For DeRozan, returning to Los Angeles had its appeal, especially since playing in his hometown has been a long-held dream. However, both the Lakers and Clippers were in challenging financial situations this offseason, deep in the luxury tax. To bring DeRozan aboard, either team would have had to orchestrate a complicated sign-and-trade deal. Neither franchise was willing to take that route, but Sacramento’s front office was prepared to move decisively.
In addition to making waves with his free agency decision, DeRozan has been making media appearances to promote his new book, Above the Noise, where he opens up about his journey with mental health. In an interview with Sam Amick of The Athletic, DeRozan talked about how the NBA’s attitude toward mental health has evolved over the years. He explained that when he first entered the league, there were resources for physical conditioning—trainers, nutritionists, and film sessions—but mental health wasn’t even part of the conversation.
“It wasn’t something we talked about when I came into the league,” DeRozan said. “You had all your necessities for the physical side of the game, but there was no infrastructure in place for the mental side, especially for young players.”
DeRozan, along with players like Kevin Love, has been at the forefront of the movement to bring mental health awareness to the NBA. His openness has helped foster a culture shift in the league, making mental well-being a more accepted and prioritized aspect of player development. This lasting impact, DeRozan believes, will endure long after his playing days are over.
As DeRozan gears up for his first season with the Kings, the excitement around his decision continues to build. Fans are eager to see how his veteran leadership and scoring ability will influence Sacramento’s rise in the Western Conference. One thing is certain: DeRozan’s choice to sign with the Kings signals a new era for the franchise, and his contributions both on and off the court will leave a lasting legacy.
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