Just last summer the Los Angeles Lakers seemed extremely close to acquiring Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins, but ultimately the trade talks died out. Since that time it has consistently been reported that the Kings had no intentions of trading their All-Star center, but that may be changing.
Cousins’ talent is undeniable, but he has also clashed with nearly all of his coaches in the NBA and is usually among the league leaders in technical fouls every year.
After another year of missing the playoffs Cousins’ attitude may have worn thin on the Kings as according to Ailene Voisin of the Sacramento Bee, the Kings could be willing to test the market on their star player:
A year ago, Cousins was untouchable. A year later, the sense within the organization is Divac is tempted by the prospect of pairing his center with his personally selected coach but that he has become increasingly frustrated by his center’s ongoing issues and, for the first time, is willing to test the market for the two-time All-Star.
In addition to having issues with coaches, Voisin also reports that Cousins has alienated his Kings teammates as well:
Apart from Rondo, Cousins has few friends among his teammates. Several players privately have complained to management about his mood swings and disrespect for those around him, including his coaches and in particular Karl.
The Lakers pushed hard last season to try and obtain Cousins, so it isn’t too far-fetched to see them possibly looking to add him again this off-season. The Lakers have young talent already and adding a true star to build around would be huge for a Lakers team trying to return to contention.
The Lakers will be exploring all avenues this summer in trying to improve the team. Whether or not the team keeps its draft pick will play a significant role in how this off-season goes. If a star like Cousins, Jimmy Butler, or James Harden is attainable, the Lakers would be wise to at least see what it will take to bring them to L.A.
