Kings' DeMar DeRozan Upset Teammate Raynaud Snubbed from NBA Honor

DeRozan calls for Raynaud to make All-Rookie team after missing Rising Stars invite.

Mar. 23, 2026 at 2:12am

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Sacramento Kings veteran DeMar DeRozan is voicing his displeasure over teammate Maxime Raynaud not being selected for the Rising Stars game during NBA All-Star weekend. Despite Raynaud's strong rookie campaign, the 42nd overall pick was left off the roster, angering DeRozan who believes the young center deserves recognition for his play this season.

Why it matters

Raynaud has been a bright spot for the struggling Kings, emerging as a double-double machine despite being a late second-round pick. DeRozan's public support shows the veteran leadership trying to ensure the rookie gets the credit he deserves, which could be important for Raynaud's development and the team's future.

The details

Raynaud, a 22-year-old rookie from France, is averaging 13.8 points and 8.6 rebounds per game as the Kings' starting center. He had another impressive outing on Sunday, recording 22 points and 10 rebounds in a win over the Brooklyn Nets. Despite his solid play, Raynaud was snubbed from the Rising Stars game during All-Star weekend, upsetting veteran teammate DeMar DeRozan.

  • On Sunday, March 23, 2026, Raynaud had 22 points and 10 rebounds in the Kings' win over the Nets.

The players

DeMar DeRozan

A veteran forward for the Sacramento Kings who is publicly advocating for his rookie teammate Maxime Raynaud to be recognized for his strong play this season.

Maxime Raynaud

A 22-year-old rookie center for the Sacramento Kings who was surprisingly left off the Rising Stars roster despite averaging a double-double this season.

Malik Monk

A Kings guard who scored 32 points in the team's win over the Nets on Sunday.

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What they’re saying

“Don't tell him, but from my standpoint, I want him to make the All-Rookie team.”

— DeMar DeRozan, Kings veteran

What’s next

DeRozan will continue to advocate for Raynaud to earn recognition, including a spot on the All-Rookie team, as the Kings' season winds down.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the importance of veteran leadership in developing young talent, as well as the challenges faced by late-round draft picks to earn the respect and accolades they deserve, even when their play warrants it.