Mike Malone wasn’t given much of a chance to turn the misfortunes of the struggling Sacramento Kings around. After a disappointing 28-54 season last year, Malone had the Kings off to an 11-13 start this season. He was fired on Sunday — one day after the team lost its third consecutive game.
Many of us were kind of surprised to see Malone get the quick axe. Kings star DeMarcus Cousins seemed just as shocked, as he had to hear the news through social media.
Cousins found out on Twitter. Asked about players' reaction, "I think this is the perfect weather for this situation." It's gray & rainy.
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) December 15, 2014
Synopsis from DeMarcus Cousins at Kings practice: It's a business. Yes, he was surprised. No, he wasn't consulted. Yes, he trusts them.
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) December 15, 2014
Cousins had some problems with former Kings coach Keith Smart, but all indications were that he got along fine with Malone.
Unless the Kings have their sights set on a big name (George Karl is reportedly one possibility), the decision to fire Malone this quickly makes little sense. But if it makes Cousins feel any better, finding out important stuff about your own team on Twitter is very common in the year 2014.
