DeMar DeRozan expresses his frustration after the Kings’ 13th consecutive loss
DeMar DeRozan didn't hide his exasperation during Sacramento's historic loss to the Pelicans. This 13th straight defeat sets a new franchise record for the Kings since their move to Northern California.
Feb 1, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Sacramento Kings guard DeMar DeRozan (10) dunks during the second half against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images
Photo Credit : © Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images
The Sacramento Kings continue their free fall with a 13th consecutive loss, this time against the New Orleans Pelicans by a score of 120-94. This losing streak now represents the franchise’s record for consecutive defeats since relocating to Northern California in 1985.
A gesture of frustration revealing the team’s mindset
The most notable incident of the evening occurred during a timeout in the third quarter, when DeMar DeRozan threw a water bottle on the floor, forcing arena staff to clean up. This gesture perfectly reflects the six-time All-Star’s exasperation with his team’s disappointing performances.
« A lot of things we do are self-inflicted, » DeRozan said after the game. « The fact that we’re not in the right spots creates a chain reaction, they come back in transition, get easy shots, easy baskets, so (the water bottle incident) was just me wanting us to play the right way, win or lose. »
DeMar DeRozan was PISSED last night 😳 pic.twitter.com/Hu0bLB4VDK
— BrickCenter (@BrickCenter_) February 10, 2026
Head coach Doug Christie confirmed having a quick discussion with his player about the incident. « His frustration is first about ending this streak, and also after being so close in so many games where it could have gone either way, this is the first time in a long time we’ve had this kind of result where we really weren’t in the game, » the coach explained.
An uncertain future for DeRozan and the Kings
With a catastrophic record of 12 wins and 43 losses, Sacramento currently holds the worst record in the NBA. The situation isn’t expected to improve significantly, especially since De’Andre Hunter, already injured, was the main acquisition before the trade deadline.
For DeRozan, a release via contract buyout seems unlikely. According to ESPN, the team had « no plans » to pursue that route if the veteran remained on the roster after the deadline. Sacramento can either trade him this summer or simply release him by paying the $10 million guaranteed on his contract.
The Kings will have a golden opportunity to end this losing streak on Wednesday against the Utah Jazz, a team still rebuilding despite acquiring Jaren Jackson Jr. It remains to be seen whether Sacramento has hit rock bottom or if this negative spiral will continue.
With a background in sports management, Nicolas Flamecourt covers NBA news with a particular passion for the North American league, which he has been following for several years. He also covers the NCAA, including news and scouting of future prospects, and regularly conducts interviews with French players as well as players competing in Europe.
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