It’s been an absolute disaster in Sacramento this season. The Kings are 5-22 and have the worst record in the league. Between last year’s Rookie of the Year, Tyreke Evans, and first-round pick DeMarcus Cousins, there was optimism entering the season. But Tyreke has been bothered by foot and personal problems and Cousins has been bothered by his Stephon Marbury alter ego.
We were high on DeMarcus Cousins coming out of the draft, brushing aside his character issues. They appear to be quite real, and he has become a problem. Cousins has fought with the coaching staff, been kicked out of practice, and then he was benched for making a choke sign during Tuesday’s loss to Golden State. On top of all that, Sam Amick says Cousins was sent to the bench for a long period Thursday for not reciprocating a high-five.
At this point the Kings are disciplining him for nearly everything, while Cousins is just inventing ways to get into trouble. With the team’s struggles and Cousins’ issues, the Kings could consider sending Cousins to the D-League to straighten him out. Scott Howard Cooper suggested the possibility which seems like a logical option. The move could weaken the team in the short term, but it could be best for Cousins in the long run.
