DeRozan Cleared to Play Against Former Team

The Sacramento Kings will have veteran forward DeMar DeRozan in the lineup when they face the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday. This comes after DeRozan missed the Kings’ recent game against the Brooklyn Nets – just the second absence of the season for the six-time All-Star.

A Special Return to Toronto

DeRozan spent the first nine years of his NBA career with the Raptors, becoming the franchise’s all-time leading scorer and games played leader. His return to Toronto is always a significant occasion, marking his 11th game in the city since being traded in the 2018 offseason.

DeRozan's History Against the Raptors

Throughout his ten previous visits to Toronto, DeRozan has averaged 23.0 points, 5.4 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game. In his last appearance in Toronto as a King, he scored 33 points, though he hasn’t played there since November 2024.

Chasing NBA History

Wednesday’s game presents DeRozan with an opportunity to climb the NBA’s all-time scoring list. Just nine points will move him past Dominique Wilkins into 17th place. Given the game’s location, it’s a fitting place to achieve this milestone.

Veteran Impact on a Rebuilding Kings Team

Despite being in his 17th NBA season at age 36, DeRozan continues to contribute significantly, averaging 18.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game while shooting 49.5% from the field. While this is his first season since 2012-13 where he won’t average 20+ points, his impact extends beyond scoring.

Leadership and Future Outlook

As the Kings transition into a rebuild, DeRozan’s veteran leadership is proving invaluable for the development of younger players, similar to the role Russell Westbrook plays. His future with the Kings remains uncertain, but his contributions over the past two seasons have been noteworthy.