After Gilbert Arenas’ Public Rant, DeMar DeRozan Receives Some Assurance From Ex-Clippers Star: “Their Fans Are Great”

“Unfortunately, the fanbase and the organization are on two different wavelengths.” 3× NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas’ shocking statement put both DeMar DeRozan and the Sacramento Kings in a tight spot. The Kings, who recently drafted the 6× NBA All-Star DeRozan, had seen significant improvements in their roster. However, Arenas’ words stirred conversations within the NBA community. Amid the buzz, a former star from the Los Angeles Clippers offered DeRozan a sense of security concerning his new team.

In an interview with ABC10’s Kevin John, 6× NBA All-Star Blake Griffin talked about his experience with the king’s fans. Transitioning to the topic of fan support, Kevin John asked, “What do you think about the Sacramento Kings so far? Have they turned you into a believer?” The ex-Clippers responded positively, saying, “Their fans are great. They are like die-hard fans.”

Griffin further explained that playing in Sacramento is enjoyable because of the enthusiastic and supportive fanbase. Rightly so, for the Kings have been considered one of the most loved teams while an interesting data presents their fandom to be among the top 5 happiest. This perspective offers DeRozan some comfort as he transitions to a new team environment.

Moreover, Griffin praised the team’s recent performance and growth. “Yeah, they’ve been great,” he noted, adding that the Kings have assembled a solid team with impressive young talents, such as Keegan Murray, who recently joined the other prospects like Kevin Huerter, Malik Monk, and rookie Devin Carter. Griffin’s insights highlight the potential DeRozan has to make a significant impact alongside his new teammates. Griffin’s view comes as a stark contrast to that of Arenas who has remained skeptical about the Kings’ prospects.

Agent Zero claimed that the team’s market limitations prevent them from assembling a championship-winning roster. “The team is handicapped by just the market itself. So they can’t put a team together that could actually, possibly win it. They just can’t,” he stated.

Acquiring DeRozan shows that the Kings are willing to take a chance, even with offers from top-tier teams like the Lakers and Heat. DeRozan’s new contract—a three-year deal worth $73.7 million—signals the Kings’ commitment to building a competitive team. Alongside Malik Monk’s four-year, $78 million deal and other strategic moves, the Kings are positioning themselves for success. – And that’s another reason for DeRozan to rejoice over his move.

DeMar DeRozan completes the Kings’ Big 3

It was on July 6th that ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski first announced the hints of the Sacramento Kings seemingly working towards a rebuild with DeMar DeRozan becoming their missing puzzle piece. Averaging 25.5 points and 5.1 assists, the small forward joins the power houses De’Aaron Fox, and Domantas Sabonis as one of the greatest offensive players. This could make them the most cherished trio for the Kings since Chris Webber, Peja Stojaković, and Vlade Divac dominated in 2001-02.

The Kings recorded 61-21 in their presence and made it as far as conference finals. But have failed to secure over 50 wins since 2005 campaign. Their recent best was in 2022-23 when they finished 48-34 and ended the longest playoff drought. The past season wasn’t as bad for the Kings but it was the West that has grown rather competitive, undermining the season before’s well trodden team.

Now, the trio further supported by Malik Monk and Keegan Murray might just make them the team to look out for. As the hopes grow brighter, will the Sacramento Kings head for their first championship since 1951? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud, Caitlin Clark’s Olympic snub, and more, watch this video.