Lakers Rumors: Chatter Surrounding DeMarcus Cousins and NBA Draft Trades

Most years, the Los Angeles Lakers approach the NBA draft with a semblance of calm. The eminently successful franchise is often coming off a strong season with late draft picks and the luxury of being able to take the best player available.

However, keeping in line with recent seasons, Thursday won't be one of those times. The Lakers are in a state of flux, uncertain about who will carry the torch after what will probably be Kobe Bryant's last season. They are also curious as to the development and potential of Julius Randle, while featuring a roster filled with glaring deficiencies at nearly every position.

With so much at stake for a franchise and fanbase unaccustomed to mediocrity, it's little wonder the league is flush with draft and trade rumors regarding the Lakers.

There is always attention paid to Tinseltown, but the spotlight is especially harsh this season. Let's take a look at some of the latest rumors and chatter surrounding the Purple and Gold.



DeMarcus Cousins



Reports indicate something strange is going on behind the scenes in Sacramento—and the Lakers are hoping to capitalize.

This apparently involves prying DeMarcus Cousins, a budding superstar who averaged 24.1 points, 12.7 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game last season, from the beleaguered divisional rival Kings.

Yahoo Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski wrote on Tuesday that: "Coach George Karl's intense desire to trade the All-Star center has made it increasingly unlikely this coach-star partnership can peacefully co-exist next season."

Wojnarowski also noted which assets the Kings may be looking for in return for giving up who is easily their top homegrown player:

The Los Angeles Lakers have had significant interest with Cousins, but their No. 2 overall pick isn't as appealing to the Kings as finding a deal that includes established, veteran players. [Vivek]&nb...

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