DeRozan's 39-point explosion against the Charlotte Hornets wasn't just another game; it was a statement. By dropping a season-high 39 points, DeRozan vaulted himself past Tim Duncan to claim the No. 18 spot on the NBA's All-Time Scoring List. Even though the Sacramento Kings fell 117-109, DeRozan’s performance was the talk of the night.
Shooting an impressive 17-of-22 from the field and a flawless 5-of-5 from the free-throw line, DeRozan was on fire. His historic moment came late in the third quarter with a smooth 16-footer from the left elbow, pushing him past the legendary Tim Duncan, who racked up 26,496 points during his illustrious career.
Known for his mid-range prowess, DeRozan stuck to his strengths, dominating the in-between game and the paint. He attempted just one three-pointer, focusing instead on what he does best. The second quarter saw him light up the scoreboard with 14 of Sacramento’s 28 points, and he carried that momentum into the third with a crisp 15-foot jumper.
DeRozan's climb up the scoring ladder has been a highlight of the season. Just last month, he cracked the top 20, surpassing Stephen Curry for the 19th spot with another signature mid-range shot.
While DeRozan has taken on a more facilitating role with the Kings, allowing younger talents like Nique Clifford, Maxime Reynaud, and Precious Achiuwa to shine, his scoring ability remains undeniable. Currently, he stands as the fifth-highest active scorer in the league, trailing only LeBron James, Kevin Durant, James Harden, and teammate Russell Westbrook.
His tenure in Sacramento might not have gone as planned in terms of team success, but DeRozan’s influence on the court and in the locker room is palpable. He’s embraced the role of mentor, sharing his wealth of knowledge with the next generation of players.
Reflecting on his role, DeRozan shared, “I always want to invest in every teammate that I've ever played with. However I can help, what I can learn ...
It just goes back to having a love for the game.” This commitment to his teammates and the game itself underscores why DeRozan continues to be a respected figure in the NBA.