DeMarcus Cousins (Photo : NBAE via Getty Images)
The NBA trade rumors came alive with the allegation that the Sacramento Kings would be willing to trade DeMarcus Cousins.
The report came from Ailene Voisin of The Sacramento Bee who claimed that there has been a change in how the Kings, GM Vlade Divac in particular, view their top center.
"A year ago, Cousins was untouchable," Voisin declared. "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."
If Cousins is really available, then he would definitely change the structure of the offseason. While the league is waiting on Kevin Durant's decision, Cousins could be a trade option for teams that do not have much cap space.
Where would Cousins land? While it is perceived that the center wants to win, he is far from being a title-chaser. Also, if the Kings actually place him on the block, that means the red flags on his character should be seriously considered. Teams with a strong culture may seek other options-even the Boston Celtics, long regarded as the most fervent suitor for Cousins, could suddenly think twice.
A team like the Phoenix Suns, which imploded during the season, does not have much to lose, though. They recently hired interim coach Earl Watson and it was reported that he was the players' choice. It would be risky for Cousins to play under another "players' coach" but it might be the safer step to avoid another clash.
Hoops Habit noted that the Phoenix Suns has the combination of young talent and draft picks to offer in a trade. They can package center Alex Len and other players like Brandon Knight or TJ Warren. Also, they have two possible lottery picks. Their own pick is at 4th overall and if the Washington Wizards don't win the lottery, the Suns own it at 13th overall. One of these picks could be the sweetener and give Divac enough material to rebuild.
It would be tough for the Suns to take a risk on Cousins especially since they just let go of Markieff Morris. But at this stage, they need a prime talent to build the team on and if they can get Cousins, he could join other Kentucky standouts like Eric Bledsoe (Cousins' college teammate) and Devin Booker.
