A New Chapter: DeRozan's Financial Transition and Championship Aspirations
Sacramento's Ongoing Financial Commitment Post-Buyout
The Sacramento Kings are set to manage a continued financial obligation following the buyout of DeMar DeRozan's contract. Over the next three basketball seasons, specifically from 2026-27 through 2028-29, the team will allocate $3.33 million annually towards DeRozan's former salary, spreading out the remaining $10 million from his contract.
DeRozan's Fresh Start with the Denver Nuggets
Following his waiver by the Kings in early July, DeMar DeRozan has embarked on a new professional journey with the Denver Nuggets. He formalized this transition on August 21 by inking a one-year veteran minimum agreement valued at $3.9 million. This move strategically positions the 37-year-old athlete to contend for his inaugural NBA championship during what will mark his eighteenth season in the league.
Contrasting Team Fortunes: Kings' Struggles and Nuggets' Ascent
The shift to Denver represents a substantial change in competitive landscape for DeRozan. In the 2025-26 season, the Nuggets concluded with an impressive 54-28 record, securing the third seed in the Western Conference, although their playoff run ended in the first round against Minnesota. Conversely, the Sacramento Kings endured a challenging season, finishing 14th in the West with a 22-60 record, underscoring the diverging paths of the two franchises.
DeRozan's Consistent Performance Amidst Team Challenges
Despite the Sacramento Kings' difficulties last season, DeMar DeRozan maintained a high level of individual performance. He participated in 77 games, averaging 18.4 points, 4.1 assists, and 2.9 rebounds over 31.2 minutes per contest, while achieving a 49.7% shooting accuracy from the field. This demonstrated his enduring skill and reliability on the court.
Enhanced Efficiency and Career Milestones
While DeRozan's scoring average saw a slight dip from his 22.2 points in his initial season with Sacramento (2024-25), his field goal efficiency markedly improved from 47.7% to 49.7%. Additionally, he recorded a career-low of just 1.2 turnovers per game in the 2025-26 season, matching his rookie year's mark. Throughout his illustrious 17-season NBA career, DeRozan has competed in 1,264 games, averaging 21.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists, earning six All-Star selections and three All-NBA honors.
