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[Saba Sports News] After narrowly missing the 2024 NBA playoffs, the Sacramento Kings made a major offseason move by adding six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan to strengthen their De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis-led core.
At 35, DeRozan remains one of the league’s most consistent scorers, making him a valuable addition to the Kings.
In the Kings’ preseason opener against the Golden State Warriors, DeRozan wasted no time showcasing his midrange prowess, hitting a signature 21-foot jumper for his first bucket.
This sparked excitement among Kings fans, who are already envisioning his synergy with Sabonis in dribble handoffs as a new offensive weapon.
Fans took to social media to express their enthusiasm:
“DeMar DeRozan being an elite midrange threat off the Sabonis DHO’s is going to be such a mismatch for teams 😭,” wrote one user.
“DeMar just automatic from the midrange,” another added.
“DeRozan should have the same impact for the Kings as Siakam did for the Pacers, diversifying their offense,” said another.
DeRozan delivered a flawless first half, finishing with 15 points on 6-for-6 shooting, including four midrange shots, a three-pointer, two free throws, and a layup.
The Kings traded Harrison Barnes to bring in DeRozan, sacrificing Barnes’ three-point shooting for DeRozan’s elite midrange game and playmaking abilities. DeRozan’s ability to create his own shot could help elevate the Kings’ offense back to its 2022-23 form.
Whether DeRozan can turn the Kings into title contenders remains to be seen, as the Western Conference is highly competitive. However, his addition has already reignited excitement for the Beam Team’s potential.