Sacramento Kings guard-forward DeMar DeRozan has been fined $25,000 by the NBA for publicly criticizing officiating following the Kings’ 116-110 loss to the Denver Nuggets on March 5 at Ball Arena. DeRozan’s frustration boiled over after the tough loss, and his postgame comments about the referees ultimately led to the league taking disciplinary action.
This isn’t the first time DeRozan has been vocal about the league’s officiating, but his passion and leadership on and off the court remain a big part of his impact in Sacramento.
DeRozan’s Strong 2025 Season Performance
In his first season with the Kings, DeRozan has been a pivotal contributor. He’s averaging 22.2 points per game, continuing his reputation as a reliable scorer. What’s more impressive is his improvement from beyond the arc — he’s shooting a career-best 36.1% from the three-point line, adding another dimension to his offensive game.
DeRozan’s ability to create his own shot, get to the free-throw line, and now stretch the floor has made him a key piece in the Kings’ pursuit of playoff success. Even at 35 years old, he’s showing no signs of slowing down, proving his value with his consistent production and veteran leadership.
DeRozan’s move to the Sacramento Kings came after a three-year stint with the Chicago Bulls, where he signed a three-year, $85 million contract in 2021. During his time in Chicago, he reestablished himself as one of the league’s best mid-range scorers and clutch performers.
On July 7, 2024, DeRozan signed a three-year, $74 million deal with the Kings, marking a new chapter in his already impressive career. His arrival in Sacramento was seen as a major move to bolster the team’s roster, adding an experienced and talented veteran to help push the Kings deeper into the Western Conference playoff picture.
