The Sacramento Kings one figured to be sellers between now and the NBA trade deadline in February. They have a handful of big name (and high-priced) players that are likely to be available, and one of them is veteran bucket-getter DeMar DeRozan.
There have been multiple teams that are rumored to be interested in the 36-year-old, including the Milwaukee Bucks. After starting the 2025-26 season 8-5, the Bucks have lost seven straight games, and are looking for answers as they attempt to remain competitive enough to keep Giannis Antetokounmpo happy. Adding a proven offensive threat could be one of their top priorities, and they could be making calls to Sacramento’s front office in the coming days and weeks.
NBA Rumors: The Bucks Should Trade For DeMar DeRozan
Here are three reasons why the Bucks should be interested in trading for DeMar DeRozan:
Milwaukee’s Desperate Need Of A Go-To Scorer
One reason for the Bucks to pursue DeMar DeRozan is his ability to immediately slot in as a dependable second scoring option behind Giannis Antetokounmpo. Even at 36 years of age, DeRozan has remained one of the league’s most consistent bucket-getters, averaging around 22.2 points last year while still shooting at an efficient clip. His mid-range mastery, ability to create in isolation, and comfort operating in late-clock situations give Milwaukee a level of offensive reliability they often lack when defenses hone in on Giannis.
But it goes beyond simply being the No. 2 option. DeRozan is one of the very few NBA veterans who can step seamlessly into the No. 1 scoring role whenever necessary. If Giannis misses time, is limited by foul trouble, or simply has an off night, DeRozan is capable of carrying the scoring load without disrupting the team’s flow.
High Usage, High Output
DeMar DeRozan is his ability to handle a high usage rate while still producing efficient, reliable offense. Even as he enters the later stages of his career, DeRozan remains one of the league’s best at converting touches into points without wasting possessions. His 2025–26 numbers continue to reflect that efficiency, too. He is scoring 18.2 points through 20 games, and has low turnover rates despite being a primary creator for Sacramento.
Unlike many high-usage players who rely heavily on three-pointers or streaky scoring, DeRozan’s game is built on repeatable, methodical shot creation. For Milwaukee, that matters. A high-usage player isn’t a problem when the usage is productive, efficient, and controlled. DeRozan rarely forces bad shots, rarely turns the ball over, and rarely disrupts offensive flow. Instead, he would provide stability for a team desperately searching for it.
Maximize Giannis’ Time In Milwaukee
Above all else, trading for DeMar DeRozan aligns with the most important priority the Bucks face: maximizing the remaining years of the Giannis Antetokounmpo era. No matter how committed Giannis has been to Milwaukee, the clock always feels like it’s ticking for the small-market contenders.
The possibility of Giannis someday exploring a bigger market has hovered over the franchise for years. It doesn’t mean he’s leaving, but there have always been rumors surrounding the superstar and whether he’ll spend his entire NBA career in Wisconsin. For the Bucks, surrounding him with veterans who can elevate the team right now is imperative. It’s showing him that every season, the Bucks are doing everything possible to contend. DeRozan fits that urgency.
