Why did DeRozan sign with the Kings during NBA free agency? Originally appeared in NBC Bay Area Sports
DeMar DeRozan had plenty of “legitimate” options to choose from during NBA free agency, but ended up signing with the kings For a handful of reasons.
On the latest episode of “Podcast P with Paul George,” the 35-year-old star revealed why he passed up the Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers and Miami Heat for a new challenge with Sacramento.
Ironically, George’s recent move to Philadelphia influenced DeRozan’s decision.
Oh, and of course, winning.
“One, and this is funny, I had to wait to see what you were going to do,” DeRozan told George. “So I’m waiting to see what you were going to do, first of all. I had a really tough time in Chicago. I had some amazing teammates in Chicago. Great city, great place. I think I was just looking for an opportunity to win at a high level, wherever that was. I think after last season, that was my vision and my focus for this upcoming season.
“So when the season ended, I was kind of sitting on the sidelines. Everybody knew I was in a place where I just wanted to win, so from there I just let the cards play out in a way that allowed me to think, ‘Okay, let me see what the big picture is or what’s going to win, and where I can be a part of that and help with that. ’”
In search of a proven, perennial scorer to help De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis on offense, the Kings turned to six-time All-Star DeRozan, who had been impressed by Coach Mike Brown team and culture over the past few seasons.
“Sac showed up and they showed interest,” DeRozan recalled. “Real interest. So when I sat down and looked at the team: great players, great coach. I remember over the last few years always seeing them shine and win.”
In early July, the Kings reached a sign-and-trade agreement with the Chicago Bulls and San Antonio Spurs, sending DeRozan to Sacramento in a Three-year, $76 million contract.
Now, the star point guard hopes to use his scoring ability to further illuminate Sacramento.
“They definitely have a movement,” DeRozan concluded. “And that’s something you always want to be a part of, an infectious culture of an organization that wants to win. When I looked at all that, I felt like he fit in. He was a key piece that could bring from a leadership standpoint and definitely from a skills standpoint that can push us to the limit. He became more and more attractive as I weighed him in.”
“It took me a while to sign because I wanted to make sure that the next decision I made would give me the best chance to win. I’m definitely looking forward to it.”