Here’s a bombshell for NBA fans: despite swirling rumors, the Sacramento Kings have zero plans to buy out DeMar DeRozan, even if he’s still on the roster after the trade deadline. But here’s where it gets controversial—while Chris Mannix of SI.com suggested DeRozan was a strong buyout candidate, team sources are emphatically denying that’s even on the table. According to Anthony Slater of ESPN, the Kings haven’t even discussed the idea with DeRozan’s camp, let alone considered it a viable option. So, what’s really going on here? Let’s break it down.
DeRozan, a 36-year-old wing earning $24.6 million this season and $25.7 million in 2026/27, has only $10 million guaranteed for next season. And this is the part most people miss—as cap expert Yossi Gozlan points out, it doesn’t make financial sense for DeRozan to agree to a buyout. Why? Because doing so would eliminate the possibility of his partial guarantee increasing as part of a trade this summer. In other words, a buyout would cost him money, and neither he nor the Kings seem interested in that outcome.
The Kings, currently sitting at a dismal 12-39 record, are in no rush to move DeRozan. They can afford to wait until the offseason to explore trade options or decide if parting ways is the best move. Meanwhile, DeRozan himself has been clear: he’s not actively pushing for a trade, but he’d prefer to be playing in more meaningful games at this stage of his career. Here’s the kicker—despite the team’s struggles, DeRozan has remained a positive force in the locker room, earning praise from teammates, coaches, and the front office for his professionalism.
So, where does this leave us? The Kings are holding their cards close, DeRozan is staying professional, and the buyout rumors appear to be just that—rumors. But here’s a thought-provoking question for you: If the Kings can’t find a trade partner for DeRozan in the offseason, should they reconsider their stance on a buyout, or is it better to keep a veteran leader on the roster, even if it means paying a premium? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate that’s sure to spark differing opinions.
