In a move that shifted the NBA landscape during the recent offseason, veteran shooting guard DeMar DeRozan has inked a deal with the Sacramento Kings. This marked the end of his significant three-year stint with the Chicago Bulls, a tenure that left a lasting impression both on the court and in the hearts of Chicago fans.
A New Chapter in Sacramento
The 35-year-old DeRozan brings his seasoned skills to the Kings after not re-signing with the Bulls. In his three years in Chicago, DeRozan averaged a formidable 25.5 points per game and maintained an impressive shooting percentage of 49.6%. His offensive prowess was complemented by an average of 5.1 assists per game, showcasing his ability to impact multiple facets of the game.
The transition to Sacramento signifies a new chapter for DeRozan, who openly appreciates the support he garners from fans wherever he plays. "Stuff like that goes a long way, man. I'm always humbled by any type of appreciation from my time anywhere," DeRozan shared, reflecting on the adoration he received during his career.
A Fond Farewell
Chicago Bulls fans bid farewell to DeRozan with a standing ovation and a heartfelt video tribute at the United Center. DeRozan, reflecting on his tenure in Chicago, expressed gratitude for the reception from the Windy City faithful. "It was cool to come back to a place where they loved you, appreciated you. My three years here felt like 10. I enjoyed my time here. It was fun," he remarked, hinting at the deep connection he fostered with the Bulls community.
His time in Chicago wasn't without its challenges. The Bulls missed the postseason twice during his stint, managing to advance only to the first round in 2022, where they were ousted by the Milwaukee Bucks in five games. Despite the team's struggles, DeRozan’s performance remained consistent, a testament to his professionalism and dedication.
Revisiting the United Center
In his return to the United Center with the Kings, DeRozan showcased his skills once again. He scored 21 points on 9 of 20 shooting, emphasizing his scoring ability even on a new team. DeRozan added three assists to his stat line, strengthening his reputation as a reliable playmaker. Particularly noteworthy was his second-half performance, where he delivered 11 points, including nine crucial points in the fourth quarter, exemplifying his clutch nature.
During his tenure in Chicago, DeRozan formed a significant part of the Bulls’ core alongside notable players like Zach LaVine, Coby White, and Nikola Vucevic. This trio, while thrilling to watch, faced its share of ups and downs, as evidenced by their mixed postseason record.
A Lasting Legacy
As DeRozan embarks on his journey with the Kings, he leaves behind a legacy in Chicago marked by individual excellence and a series of memorable performances. His consistent scoring, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure depict the hallmark of a seasoned NBA veteran. As the Kings look to benefit from DeRozan's talents, the relationship between him and Chicago remains a testament to the impact a player can have on a city, well beyond the statistics on paper.
DeRozan's signing represents more than just a roster change; it signals the continuation of an illustrious career that continually captures the admiration of fans and players alike. With Sacramento eager to capitalize on his experience and scoring ability, DeMar DeRozan's new chapter promises to be as compelling as his previous exploits.