The Sacramento Kings and Golden State Warriors could be heading toward a trade that would shake up the Western Conference playoff picture. With Jimmy Butler sidelined for the season due to a torn ACL, Golden State is reportedly exploring ways to fill the void - and one name surfacing is DeMar DeRozan.
According to reports, the Warriors might be eyeing DeRozan as a potential solution, and the Kings could be the key to making that happen. Sacramento has shown interest in Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga, and that mutual intrigue could open the door for a deal.
Kuminga, still just 21, has flashed serious upside this season. His blend of athleticism, defensive potential, and improved offensive game has made him a valuable asset - not just for the Warriors’ future, but as a trade chip that could bring in immediate help. And that’s where DeRozan enters the picture.
DeRozan, a six-time All-Star, is still producing at a high level. He’s averaging 19.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game while shooting a sharp 50.8% from the field. His mid-range game remains one of the most lethal in the league, and his ability to create offense in crunch time could be exactly what the Warriors need alongside Steph Curry.
Golden State has leaned heavily on Curry this season - and with Butler out, the offensive burden has only grown. DeRozan could slide in as the No. 2 scoring option, giving the Warriors another go-to guy in late-game situations. He’s not the three-point threat the Warriors typically covet, but his ability to get buckets in isolation and draw fouls adds a different dimension to their offense.
From a financial standpoint, the move could also make sense for Golden State. DeRozan is under contract for $25 million next season before hitting unrestricted free agency. That gives the Warriors a bit of future flexibility - a key consideration for a team navigating the luxury tax while trying to stay competitive in the Curry era.
For Sacramento, the potential appeal is clear. The Kings have reportedly had their eyes on Kuminga since the offseason. Bringing in a young, high-upside player like him could signal a shift toward a longer-term rebuild - something that’s been speculated about as trade rumors swirl around several of their veterans.
While DeRozan’s numbers this season are strong, they’re not far off from what Butler was giving Golden State before his injury - 20.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.9 assists on 51.9% shooting. DeRozan may not bring Butler’s defensive edge, but he offers a similar offensive impact and a veteran presence that could stabilize the Warriors’ rotation.
A potential deal could involve Kuminga and a minimum-salaried player like De’Anthony Melton heading to Sacramento in exchange for DeRozan. That’s a move that helps both teams - the Kings get younger and more athletic, while the Warriors stay in the playoff mix with a proven scorer who can help them win now.
The trade deadline is approaching, and both teams are at a crossroads. For Golden State, it’s about maximizing what’s left of Curry’s prime.
For Sacramento, it might be time to retool around a younger core. If the pieces line up, this could be one of the more impactful moves of the season.