DeMarcus Cousins (Photo : NBAE via Getty Images)
The Sacramento Kings could finally considering trading DeMarcus Cousins following Rudy Gay's decision to explore free agency next summer.
The Kings may have no other option but to explore the trade market for Rudy Gay this season after the veteran small forward announced his intentions to explore free agency next summer. While there isn't any confirmed move yet from the Kings' front office about moving Gay, it would be wise for Sacramento to deal the 31-year-old for some valuable assets.
Trading Gay could give the Kings assets to help in their rebuilding process. However, Moke Hamilton of Basketball Insiders believes it could also pave way for Sacramento to finally consider treading DeMarcus Cousins now.
"Now, as Cousins arrives at the penultimate year of his current contract, despite coming off of an incredible season, the wisest thing for the organization to do is to deal him now," Hamilton wrote. "It may sound crazy, but if it does, ask yourself two questions. First, are the Kings likely to become a contender over the next two seasons? Second, will Cousins' trade value increase between now and July 1, 2018?"
"The answers are 'no,' and 'probably not,' respectively. So why delay the inevitable?"
Cousins and the Kings have been in very rocky relationships in the past few seasons. Ever since selecting Cousins as fifth overall in 2010, the Kings have already fired five head coaches and will see Boogie play for his sixth coach in Dave Joerger.
While Joerger could provide the Kings a winning culture, the team's dysfunction could play a huge part in pushing Cousins out of Sactown. Instead of drafting a talented playmaker to address the Kings' point guard situation, the team chose to pick a pair of big men in this year's NBA draft, which adds to Sacramento's already stacked frontcourt lineup.
Cousins, who averaged a career-best 26.9 points per game last season, has insisted he is "extremely happy" to play for the Kings, but his winning moment with Team USA at the Olympics may suggest Boogie is yearning to join a contending team and be on top of the competition once again.
"I'm extremely happy to be here. I consider this home. I'm deeply rooted into the community. Family and friends here. I consider this place home," Cousins said, reports Hoops Hype.
Teams like the Celtics and Lakers have future assets and young talents to offer Sacramento, while contenders like the Cavs, Raptors and Warriors could consider exchanging one of their respective stars for the services of Cousins.
Cousins is playing the third year of his four-year $65 million contract with the Kings. If the Kings do not see Cousins committing long-term, it could be high time they consider placing Cousins on the trading block and find teams who are willing to offer the best package possible for the All-Star center.
Video courtesy: YouTube/FreeDawkins
