Everything has a way of always working out for the Los Angeles Lakers. No, they haven't had the easiest last few years. But just when one superstar era is coming to a close, the Lakers always seem to nab another star on the rise to write the next chapter in the franchise's storied history. Who could that next star be after Kobe Bryant?
How about Sacramento Kings All-Star center DeMarcus Cousins?
The Lakers are reportedly trying to work out a deal for the big man, according to ESPN, and have been actively putting together different trade packages over the last several weeks.
But new Kings head honcho Vlade Divac told the Sacramento Bee last weekend that trading away the team's best player "is not happening."
ESPN reports that the Lakers, Kings and Magic have exchanged early dialogue about a Cousins deal that would send the 24-year-old to L.A. Each team has a top six pick in Thursday's NBA draft and Orlando does have Nikola Vucevic, an offensive minded big-man who could conceivably replace Cousins.
It's unclear what type of package the Lakers could put together to facilitate such a deal. Julius Randle and Jordan Clarkson are intriguing young prospects and the No. 2 overall pick in the draftis a quality trade asset, but it still may not be enough.
But Divac has squashed any and all trade rumors surrounding his franchise cornerstone since taking over in April. Cousins also still has three years and more than $50 million left on his deal.
Divac, who may not be keen on moving Cousins, is still looking to play with the rest of the roster.
"We have a lot of changes to make," he said. "The league is much more up-tempo now and we need more 3-point shooting. If we don't get that in the draft, we'll be active in free agency and see about making trades later in the offseason."
The Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets have also been mentioned as possible trade partners in a Cousins deal.
