Here’s a detailed, ~600‑word breakdown of the potential blockbuster move:
The Trade Proposal
Boston Celtics Receive: DeMar DeRozan
Sacramento Kings Receive: Anfernee Simons and a 2027 unprotected first-round pick from Boston
Third Team (Atlanta Hawks): Swap involving Sam Hauser, Terence Davis, and additional picks to balance the deal.
This three‑team structure stems from a fantasy trade scenario floated in late July 2025 . The Celtics, aiming to fill the void left by Jayson Tatum’s injury and clear salary cap space, are central to the discussion.
Why Boston Might Do It
Instant Scoring Boost
DeRozan, a six‑time All‑Star, provides prolific mid‑range scoring and veteran clutch production — traits coveted in Tatum’s absence.
Competitive Balance with Cap Constraints
Boston seeks to lower payroll to get under the salary apron. DeRozan’s $24.8 M salary contrasts favorably with paying up for Tatum upon his return.
Playoff Push Despite “Gap Year” Status
The Celtics are open to “a gap year” — not fully rebuilding, not competing for a title — and DeRozan fits that model: high-level scoring without a massive cost.
But… Fit Concerns
DeRozan’s mid‑range dominance doesn’t align smoothly with Boston’s three‑point oriented offense. Some voices question how well he’d mesh with Joe Mazzulla’s system .
Why Sacramento Might Trade Him
Collecting Picks and Youth
The Kings reportedly want to pivot toward younger, more flexible talent. Landing Simons and an unprotected first-round pick boosts their rebuild or retool trajectory .
Financial Flexibility
Offloading DeRozan’s contract, which carries a second guaranteed year into 2026‑27, frees cap room to chase free agents or pursue trades.
Poor Trade Market
Sacramento insiders say DeRozan’s trade market is “nearly nonexistent,” meaning moving him now for solid cost-return could be wise.
Why Both Teams Might Hesitate
For Boston:
They could get more consistent returns in shooting and floor spacing by trading for different player types.
Internal rumors suggest they’d rather keep Jrue Holiday than shift so much payroll .
For Sacramento:
DeRozan remains a proven scorer with playoff experience — trading him could plunge the team into deeper uncertainty
Simons’ defensive fit is questionable and doesn’t raise the team’s ceiling immediately .
Broader Trade Landscape
Market Observations: Kings exploring trades for both DeRozan and Domantas Sabonis indicate a full-scale overhaul is on the table.
Alternative Teams: Hate‑to‑miss Miami or Atlanta have surfaced as possible landing spots — though Celtics rumors remain strongest for now .
Player & Career Impact
DeRozan (age 35 this August) remains elite:
Scored 22.2 points per game in 2024‑25, marking the 12th straight season of 20+ ppg
Known for his mid‑range craft, he attempted a career-high 8.3 mid-range shots per game last season.
A move to Boston offers renewed spotlight, playoff chances, and potential fresh motivation.
Summary Take
For Boston: A calculated gamble to bridge through Tatum’s absence with elite scoring at a reduced financial cost.
For Sacramento: An opportunity to recalibrate, secure future assets, and adhere to a youth-first direction — all while smartly timing the marketplace ahead of a potential league-wide summer push.
However, friction points remain: DeRozan’s fit with Boston’s pace, his age, Sacramento’s possible competitive window, and uncertainty over what they’d lose in chemistry and fan connection.
Final Thoughts (600 Words TL;DR)
If executed, the DeRozan-for-Simons-and-pick swap is a high-stakes, win-now move for Boston and a strategic pivot for Sacramento. Boston gets instant offense and cap space; Sacramento adds youth and draft capital — but at the cost of veteran presence and proven scoring. Whether it materializes depends on each team’s patience and belief in their respective trajectories.
