DeMar DeRozan, a renowned scorer in NBA history, currently stands 25th on the all-time scoring list with an impressive 25,555 points amassed over his 17-year career. Known for his signature mid-range jump shot, DeRozan has consistently delivered, scoring over 20 points per game for twelve consecutive seasons. However, a notable aspect of his offensive game has been his ability to draw fouls and convert at the free-throw line, where he has averaged 6.5 attempts per game throughout his career. This season, however, he finds himself attempting just 4.4 free throws per game, the lowest since his rookie year in 2009-10 when he managed just 2.5 attempts per game during limited minutes.
Several factors may contribute to this significant drop in his free-throw attempts. The Sacramento Kings are grappling with a lackluster offensive performance, currently ranked 25th in the league, which could be affecting the opportunities for DeRozan to draw fouls. Additionally, at age 36, DeRozan may not possess the same explosiveness he once did, further impacting his ability to get to the line.
This season marks the second consecutive year where there’s been a decline in his free-throw production; during his last season with the Chicago Bulls, he averaged 7.7 free-throw attempts per game. The recent statistics suggest that this may be a concerning trend rather than an anomaly, as he has seen considerably less opportunity to capitalize on foul calls.
As the Kings, now with a 3-11 record, struggle to find their footing, more consistent scoring from their guards is essential. DeRozan had a standout performance against the San Antonio Spurs, registering 27 points on an efficient 80% shooting, but even that strong showing did not see him hit the free-throw line more than twice. Throughout the Kings’ ongoing six-game losing streak, he has managed just 11 free-throw attempts, averaging 1.8 per game—remarkably low for a player who has frequently crossed the threshold of 199 free-throw attempts in a single game throughout his career.
To turn their season around, the Kings need to enhance their offensive strategy, and increasing DeRozan’s trips to the free-throw line by three to four attempts per game could make a significant difference. While this alone may not salvage their season, combined with strategic adjustments, it could help elevate the team from the depths of the standings and encourage a more competitive atmosphere.