Veteran forward DeMar DeRozan reached the 26,000‑point milestone on Wednesday, moving into 22nd place on the NBA’s all‑time scoring list as the Sacramento Kings defeated the New York Knicks 112‑101. His 27 points sparked a three‑game winning streak that has pushed the Kings into the playoff‑push tier of the Western Conference.
Milestone Puts DeRozan in Elite 26,000‑Point Club
DeRozan’s 27‑point performance lifted him past former teammate Paul Pierce and secured his spot as the 23rd player ever to surpass 26,000 career points. Joining legends such as Kareem Abdul‑Jabbar, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Kevin Durant highlights the durability and scoring consistency that define his career.
How DeRozan’s Scoring Boosted the Kings’ Playoff Push
The Kings entered the season with modest expectations, but DeRozan’s veteran presence has ignited a new level of confidence. His clutch shooting, mid‑range mastery, and leadership have contributed to a three‑game winning streak that lifted Sacramento to the ninth seed, positioning the team within striking distance of the play‑in tournament.
- 112‑101 win over the Knicks
- Three consecutive victories (Knicks, Mavericks, Pistons)
- Improved defensive rating and ball movement, according to Coach Mike Brown
Career Journey: From Toronto to Sacramento
Drafted ninth overall by the Toronto Raptors in 2009, DeRozan became the franchise’s all‑time leading scorer before a blockbuster trade sent him to Chicago, where he earned three All‑Star selections and two All‑NBA Third Team honors. A stint with the San Antonio Spurs added veteran leadership, and his 2023 trade to Sacramento has proven pivotal for both player and team.
Future Outlook for DeRozan and the Kings
At 35, DeRozan remains healthy and continues to average around 20 points per game. Maintaining this pace could see him break into the top‑15 all‑time scorers before the season ends. For Sacramento, the trade deadline presents an opportunity to build around DeRozan as a cornerstone for a deeper playoff run, rather than a short‑term rental.
Legacy and Impact
Critics once labeled DeRozan a “mid‑range specialist,” yet his ability to adapt, score consistently, and mentor younger talent challenges that narrative. His 26,000‑point achievement is more than a statistic—it’s a testament to work ethic, versatility, and the evolving nature of NBA scoring excellence.
