Kings' Trade Fizzles DeMar DeRozan Buyout Looms

Merlin sees the Kings unlikely to move DeMar DeRozan before Thursday’s trade deadline. Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix reports DeRozan is not generating much trade interest and is considered a "strong" buyout candidate. Sacramento explored swaps with Portland and the Clippers but nothing gained traction. DeRozan has been a rare bright spot, averaging 19.2 points on 50.6 percent shooting in 51 starts. At 36, DeRozan could be a valuable short-term piece for a contender if he accepts a buyout, but buying him out would be costly given $24.6 million owed in 2025-26 and $25.7 million in 2026-27. Merlin senses Sacramento at a crossroads: preserve veteran leadership and stability or eat salary to accelerate a reset after a quick fall from recent success.