Mike Brown says DeMar DeRozan makes the the Kings better, but it goes both ways

Jul 18, 2024, 1:11 PM | Updated: 3:30 pm

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - JANUARY 30: Head coach Mike Brown of the Sacramento Kings looks on against the Mi...

(Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)

Sactown Sports writer

After losing two more games than the year prior, the Sacramento Kings clearly knew they had to make improvements throughout the 2024 offseason. The most notable came in the form of a sign-and-trade for Chicago Bulls star DeMar DeRozan, losing Harrison Barnes and Chris Duarte, and a future first-round pick swap in the process.

For the first time since the deal, head coach Mike Brown spoke with reporters in Las Vegas about the addition of DeMar DeRozan and why he thinks his talent improves the team but also that they can help his efficiency and effectiveness in the process.

“Obviously, you’re extremely excited,” Brown said, “He’s a veteran guy who’s seen a lot of different defenses thrown his way. Not only defenses, he’s been in a lot of different situations. He’s a closer and he’s just a great human being. So, to have that addition to your team should definitely take ur to another level. Now, one player’s not necessarily going to move the needle all by himself, it’s going to take a collective effort so we all have to use the summhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwx_Ahk1obger to get better in order to enhance our chances as well.”

Sacramento Kings head coach Mike Brown – July 17, 2024

The full interview can be seen on Sactown Sports YouTube.

Brown explained the role he expects DeRozan to play in Sacramento’s offense and how he fits into their preexisting schemes during the process. Also, with multiple assistant coaches moving to larger roles on other teams, he explained his process of hiring new faces to fill those roles.

When is the next Summer League game for the Sacramento Kings?

The Kings’ Las Vegas Summer League slate continues on Thursday afternoon with a matchup against second-overall pick Alex Sarr and the Washington Wizards. Action will tip off at 4:00 p.m. PDT and be broadcast on ESPN.

Sactown Sports 1140 will have all of your Sacramento Kings coverage for the Las Vegas Summer League, free agency, and much more!