Kings Veteran Reclaims Groove After Challenging Games
DeMar DeRozan has begun to look like his old self after a difficult stretch this season. The Kings veteran reclaims his groove following a run of challenging games and a long team losing streak.
Early season struggle
DeRozan, in his 17th NBA season, missed the scoring mark fans expected. He joined Sacramento via a July 2024 trade as a six-time All-Star and veteran scorer.
Known for his mid-range mastery, DeRozan rarely shoots from beyond the arc. His career scoring average sits at 21.2 points per game, but his output dipped well below that with the Kings.
Low point amid losing skid
The Kings endured a 16-game losing streak this season. During that stretch his scoring fell to about 15.6 points per game in February.
No one on the roster was at peak form during the skid. The decline affected both team results and individual numbers.
Late-season surge
The club found better form after the losing streak ended. DeRozan responded with several high-scoring outings.
Notable performances
| Opponent | Points | Field Goals |
|---|---|---|
| Charlotte Hornets | 39 | 17 of 22 |
| Los Angeles Clippers | 27 | 11 of 14 |
| Utah Jazz | 41 | 11 of 21 |
| San Antonio Spurs | 2 | 1 of 4 |
His 41-point game marked his season high. The two-point outing came with limited minutes against the Spurs.
What it means moving forward
DeRozan’s recent form offers a reminder of his clutch value. He remains one of the league’s reliable late-game options.
Still, Sacramento’s long-term construction raises questions. A roster move or offseason buyout appears possible as the franchise weighs future direction.
Many observers hope to see DeRozan finish his career on a contender. No disrespect to the Kings, but immediate title contention seems unlikely for this group.
Reporting by Filmogaz.com.
