The Golden State Warriors’ playoff hopes appeared bleak during most of the 2024-25 trade season.
The Warriors were among the most inconsistent squads in the league, prompting them to appease their superstar guard, Stephen Curry, by acquiring Jimmy Butler on Feb. 5 in a multi-team deal.
Since joining the Dubs in early February, the former Miami Heat standout forward has changed the perception surrounding the Warriors’ organization.
Thanks to Butler’s two-way contributions, Golden State boasts a much-improved 46-32 record in early April and should be viewed as a dark horse championship contender.
Still, once the 2025 free agency period arrives, the Warriors could land a third superstar and start the 2025-26 campaign with an even more formidable roster by acquiring an elite wing from the Sacramento Kings.
DeMar DeRozan had various options last summer but ultimately signed a three-year deal with the Sacramento Kings.
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From a productivity standpoint, the mid-range assassin hasn’t given Sacramento much to complain about.
DeRozan averages 22.2 points, 4.4 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game, shooting 48.1% from the field and 34.0% from three-point land.
However, the USC product’s inability to hold his weight as an on- and off-ball defender has negatively impacted a Kings squad that fired Mike Brown before New Year’s Day.
Sacramento ranks 20th in points allowed per game, surrendering an average of 115.6 points nightly.
If the 38-40 Kings fail to reach the postseason with DeRozan, they may be open to exploring an offseason trade involving the former Toronto Raptors phenom.
While DeRozan’s defensive issues would be noticeable in the Bay, he would give the Warriors another battle-tested veteran star who isn’t a stranger to monumental playoff moments.
Buddy Hield is on thin ice with the Warriors after starting the year red-hot from beyond the arc, which could make him a primary trade bait asset in a noteworthy summer trade for DeRozan.
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