In advance of the upcoming NBA draft, Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins could find himself the centerpiece of a trade. The Cleveland Cavaliers, Charlotte Bobcats and Dallas Mavericks are reportedly interested in Sacramento's big man, according to ESPN.
Cousins, who has a history of behavioral problems in his three seasons with Sacramento, could become the first casualty of new owner Vivek Randadive. While the 22-year-old has struggled with maturity issues, there's no denying the raw talent that he has — he averaged 17.1 points and 9.9 rebounds per game last season.
Chad Ford of ESPN reported, via Dimemag.com, a source on Wednesday saying that Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert is urging his team to trade their No. 1 draft pick this year for Cousins.
"Sources say the Cavs have already begun to explore what they can get with the No. 1 pick. If they can get a young big or small forward in return, Gilbert will be pushing for them to trade the pick," Ford wrote. "Who can they get? The pickings will be slim. Teams aren't dying to get the No. 1 pick. But one name that you shouldn't totally rule out is the Sacramento Kings' DeMarcus Cousins."
A Kyrie Irving and Cousins pairing looks good on paper. The Kings are in rebuilding mode, and the first pick of this year's draft is a great way to start.
Cleveland apparently isn't the only club eying Cousins.
"The Cavs won't be the only team calling the Kings once they get a new GM in place," Ford added. "Sources say that the Charlotte Bobcats and Dallas Mavericks will also have interest in Cousins if Sacramento's new management decides to cut ties with Cousins."
Dallas, which is rumored to be in the hunt for free agents Chris Paul and Dwight Howard, would settle for Cousins in the frontcourt with All-Star Dirk Nowitzki.
The Washington Wizards were also rumored to have interest in Cousins. Wizards guard John Wall and Cousins played together at Kentucky, and they remain close friends. Wall's presence could help keep Cousins focused and out of trouble. As for the potential of a Wall-Cousins tandem, look no further than the 2011 Rookie vs. Sophomore game.
The 2013 NBA draft is less than a month away. As draft day draws closer, expect these hushed rumblings to get louder.
