The Sacramento Kings hired George Karl just a few short months ago, and already the veteran coach may be having his first rift with ownership.
According to Jason Jones of the Sacramento Bee, Karl has “frustrated” Kings owner Vivek Ranadive by shopping DeMarcus Cousins on his own. Karl apparently assured Ranadive he would not be involved with personnel decisions when he was hired, and now he is reportedly looking to trade Cousins despite ownership wanting to keep the 24-year-old.
Vivek is not happy with Karl at all right now, per sources.
— Jason Jones (@mr_jasonjones) June 25, 2015
In addition, Jones cites sources close to the team who insist none of the trade rumors are Cousins’ fault. Rather, the 6-foot-11 center is only open to a trade because he believes Karl wants him gone. Cousins has been sending cryptic tweets over the past few days that are almost certainly about Karl.
What's done in the dark comes to the light …
— DeMarcus Cousins (@boogiecousins) June 25, 2015
— DeMarcus Cousins (@boogiecousins) June 23, 2015
The Los Angeles Lakers have seemed like the most likely suitor for Cousins, but there’s no telling how this one will turn out. Any trade that involved Cousins would need to be signed off on by the front office. Vivek may decide to stand his ground against his new coach.
H/T Pro Basketball Talk
Photo: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
