Kings Star Domantas Sabonis Issues Strong Message to NBA with DeMar DeRozan Joining Team

Sacramento Kings’ star Domantas Sabonis has expressed excitement about the team’s new addition, DeMar DeRozan, signaling a promising shift for the Kings as they aim for a stronger playoff position.

The three-team sign-and-trade that brought DeRozan to Sacramento is seen as a win for all involved, but particularly for the Kings, who now have the best player in the deal. This move is expected to help the team surpass last year’s disappointing play-in game finish, where they faltered late in the season, losing seven of their last 11 games.

Sabonis, eager to take on the upcoming season with DeRozan by his side, talked to Matt Goerge of KXTV. “It’s going to make it so much harder for teams to guard us,” he said. Domantas Sabonis talks about how DeMar DeRozan changes/improves the Kings offense.

Domantas Sabonis talks about how DeMar DeRozan changes/improves the Kings offense.

"It's going to make it so much harder for teams to guard us." pic.twitter.com/gx8cXGuwzX

— Matt George (@MattGeorgeSAC) August 25, 2024

He believes that DeRozan’s presence will add a new dynamic to the team’s playing style, requiring them to think and move differently on the court. “I think it’s gonna be good for us… We’re used to playing one style and he does something at a Hall of Fame level,” Sabonis added. DeMar DeRozan WENT OFF in the Drew League championship game last night.

54 points (36 in 2nd half)

11 rebounds

3 assists

His team, the Mecca Cheaters erased a 25-point deficit to claim the title

DeMar DeRozan WENT OFF in the Drew League championship game last night 👀

54 points (36 in 2nd half)
11 rebounds
3 assists

His team, the Mecca Cheaters erased a 25-point deficit to claim the title 🏆

(via @overtime)pic.twitter.com/qvfC4UjuH9

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) August 12, 2024

DeRozan, despite being 34, continues to perform at a high level, as demonstrated by his strong showing in the Drew League over the summer. His arrival has already generated excitement among Kings’ fans.

DeRozan himself is motivated to make a significant impact, as reported by Sergio Robles of FOX40. “I want to be one of those guys that hits the beam. I will work my butt off more than ever to make sure the city gets what it deserves… I just want to win at the highest levels,” he said.

Sacramento, who narrowly missed the playoffs in a competitive Western Conference last season, have taken a calculated risk by adding DeRozan. The move is expected to pay off if DeRozan seemingly integrates with the existing core. The Kings’ season tips off on the road against the New Orleans Pelicans on Oct. 23.