DeMar DeRozan Set to Face Former Team as Kings Visit Raptors

DeMar DeRozan has quickly made a difference for the Sacramento Kings, who will face his old team, the Toronto Raptors, on Saturday as part of their ongoing successful road trip. During the victory against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday, DeRozan contributed 27 points and eight rebounds to assist in the Kings’ 123-115 win. Sacramento is currently on a three-game winning streak, which includes victories in the first two games of a four-game road trip.

Kings Rely on DeRozan’s Free-Throw Skills

The Kings signed DeRozan to improve their free throw shooting, which was a weakness for them last year. DeRozan, a consistent scorer, made 8 out of 10 free throws on Friday, helping Sacramento achieve an 86.7 percent success rate from the line that evening. Kings guard Kevin Huerter remarked that DeMar has consistently been a skilled free-throw shooter. “His consistent presence throughout the game is beneficial in that aspect.”

Raptors Look to Recover in Vince Carter Tribute Game

Despite facing recent challenges, Toronto has lost four consecutive games, including a 131-125 defeat to the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday. Even with RJ Barrett’s impressive performance of 33 points and a career-best 12 assists, the Raptors were unable to overcome their slow beginning. Several players, including Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley, will be absent from the team due to injuries. The game on Saturday, dedicated to retiring Vince Carter’s No. 15 jersey, provides an opportunity for the Raptors to bounce back.

Kings’ Strong Core Ready to Support DeRozan

Beside DeRozan, Kings standouts De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis have maintained their performance. Fox scored the most points in Friday’s game with 31, while Sabonis recorded a double-double with 15 points and 14 rebounds. Kings coach Mike Brown praised DeRozan’s composure in pressure situations, noting, “When we give the ball to DeMar, you can really see his smooth tempo and flow.” “Extremely excellent.”

With the Kings looking to continue their winning run, DeRozan will be closely watched in this significant game against his ex-team.