With DeMar DeRozan joining the Sacramento Kings in a sign-and-trade this offseason, many fans wondered how he and De’Aaron Fox would share the spotlight in crunch time. Both have proven themselves as elite closers in recent years, with Fox winning the inaugural Clutch Player of the Year award in 2023 and DeRozan finishing as a close runner-up in 2024. Now, however, as they play on the same team, it appears only one will have a realistic shot at the award this season.
As Expected, DeMar DeRozan Is ‘Costing’ De’Aaron Fox This Award
Despite Fox’s status as the Kings’ franchise player, he seems to be ceding the spotlight to the more experienced DeRozan, who is thriving once again in clutch moments. With DeRozan leading the team in clutch scoring, Fox’s chances of winning another Clutch Player title are looking increasingly slimmer.
DeRozan’s Consistency in the Clutch
Throughout his career, DeRozan has been recognized as one of the most reliable clutch scorers. Last season, he finished second in clutch points, scoring 182 points, just behind Stephen Curry, who claimed the 2024 Clutch Player of the Year award. DeRozan has a unique ability to make difficult shots and maintain his composure under pressure, making him a perfect fit for Sacramento’s late-game situations.
Even this season, DeRozan is excelling when the game is on the line. He ranks second in the league in clutch points, trailing only Nikola Jokic, and has already accumulated 36 clutch points in the early part of the season. His continued success in these moments underscores why he’s become the Kings’ go-to option late in games. Fox’s willingness ( ‘just’ 24 clutch points) to defer to DeRozan shows the respect he has for the veteran’s experience, and this approach might be why DeRozan is leading the way in clutch situations.
Fox’s Adjustment to DeRozan’s Arrival
Fox has already proven his clutch capabilities, famously winning the 2023 Clutch Player of the Year award with 194 clutch points. He also placed fifth last season, showing he’s consistently a top performer in high-stakes moments. However, with DeRozan now by his side, Fox’s approach has shifted. He seems to be focusing more on setting up DeRozan or making plays within the flow of the game rather than taking on every late-game responsibility himself.
This shift may reflect Fox’s understanding of the value DeRozan brings as a seasoned closer. DeRozan has eight more years of experience, and his efficiency in late-game scenarios could benefit the Kings in their playoff push. Fox’s decision to trust DeRozan with these opportunities may ultimately enhance the team’s performance, even if it reduces his own chances of winning a second Clutch Player award.
How DeRozan’s Presence Could Impact Fox’s Award Hopes
It was clear from the start that DeRozan’s arrival might impact Fox’s chances at the Clutch Player of the Year award. While both have a history of excelling in clutch situations, only one can truly dominate that role on any given team. Though Fox could have continued to pursue the award, he seems to have prioritized team dynamics over personal accolades.
As DeRozan outpaces Fox in clutch points, it’s becoming more likely that he’ll receive more consideration for the Clutch Player award this season. However, Fox’s willingness to step back and support DeRozan’s success reflects his maturity as a player. His focus on the bigger picture shows he’s committed to winning games, even if it costs him individual recognition.
Building a More Dangerous Team
Although DeRozan’s presence may cost Fox another Clutch Player of the Year award, the partnership benefits Sacramento’s overall success. With two elite closers, the Kings now have more options in late-game scenarios. Defenses can’t focus solely on Fox, knowing that DeRozan is equally capable of closing out games.
This dynamic can also help the Kings as they develop role players who benefit from being on the floor with two clutch veterans. Players like Keegan Murray and Keon Ellis will have the chance to learn from Fox and DeRozan in high-stakes situations, potentially turning them into valuable assets. Sacramento’s management can use these assets to make strategic moves down the line, possibly setting the team up for sustained success in the competitive Western Conference.
DeRozan’s MVP-Caliber Impact in Sacramento
As the season unfolds, it’s clear that DeRozan’s addition has changed the makeup of Sacramento’s team. His reliability in clutch moments has not only earned him trust from Fox but could also make him a serious contender for the Clutch Player of the Year award. His leadership and scoring in critical moments provide Sacramento with the stability they need to make a deep playoff run, even if it comes at the cost of Fox’s individual recognition.
In the long run, the Kings will benefit from this pairing of clutch players. Fox’s selflessness and DeRozan’s consistency create a balanced dynamic that should improve the team’s chances of success in the postseason. For Fox, the ultimate prize may not be another Clutch Player award but a chance to lead Sacramento on a championship journey.
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