NBA BOMBSHELL: Kings Land Celtics’ $100M Star in 3-Team Blockbuster, DeRozan Heads East in Stunning Shake-Up
In one of the most surprising and consequential trades in recent NBA memory, the Sacramento Kings have pulled off a massive three-team deal, acquiring a $100 million star from the Boston Celtics. Simultaneously, veteran All-Star DeMar DeRozan is packing his bags and heading east in a transaction that could dramatically alter the balance of power across both conferences.
The Trade Details (Reported)
While full specifics are still emerging, early reports indicate this blockbuster trade involved:
Sacramento Kings: Acquiring the $100M Celtics star — believed to be a core piece of Boston’s recent Finals-contending rosters.
Boston Celtics: Gaining depth, flexibility, and likely multiple assets in return, including high-upside young talent and draft capital.
Third Team (rumored to be from the Eastern Conference): Taking on DeRozan, offering him a fresh start and likely a bigger offensive role.
Kings Go All-In
The Kings are making a statement. After snapping their long playoff drought in 2023 and pushing the defending champions in a grueling first-round battle, Sacramento is no longer content with moral victories. Landing a proven $100M-caliber player — likely someone with elite two-way skills, playoff experience, and leadership — signals that the franchise is serious about contending in the West.
This new addition could slot in perfectly alongside De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, giving Sacramento a legitimate “Big 3” to compete with the likes of the Nuggets, Thunder, and Mavericks. If chemistry clicks, this trade might be remembered as the moment Sacramento transformed from a promising playoff team into a true championship contender.
Boston Resets — But Not Rebuilds
For the Celtics, this is a bold but calculated move. Coming off a deep postseason run and with a roster full of talent, moving on from one of their biggest contracts suggests long-term planning. Shedding salary and adding key rotational pieces or future assets could be part of a broader strategy to preserve financial flexibility while maintaining competitiveness around Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown.
Depending on the return, Boston might be looking to balance their books ahead of the new CBA rules tightening cap management — or they might be eyeing another big swing via free agency or trade. Either way, they don’t appear to be stepping back, just shifting pieces on the board.
DeRozan’s New Chapter
DeMar DeRozan’s move to the East adds another fascinating wrinkle. The 6-time All-Star remains one of the league’s most consistent mid-range scorers and clutch performers. While he may no longer be the #1 option on a title contender, his veteran presence and offensive poise will be invaluable to a younger or more defensive-minded team looking to balance the floor.
His new destination is rumored to be a team on the cusp of contention — possibly the Miami Heat, Orlando Magic, or even the Philadelphia 76ers. Wherever he lands, DeRozan brings experience, leadership, and a chip on his shoulder.
What’s Next?
This deal could be just the beginning of a flurry of late-summer moves as teams finalize rosters before training camps. With multiple stars on the move, front offices are clearly willing to take risks to push their franchises to the next level.
One thing’s certain: the NBA landscape just shifted — and fans are in for a thrilling 2025-26 season.
Stay tuned.
