The Sacramento Kings have made a stunning blockbuster trade, sending DeMarcus Cousins to the New Orleans Pelicans, according to ESPN’s Marc Stein.
The Kings will send Cousins and swingman Omri Casspi to the Pelicans in exchange for Tyreke Evans, guard Langston Galloway, rookie guard-forward Buddy Hield, a top-three-protected first-round draft pick in 2017 and a 2017 second-round draft pick.
According to ESPN, the move signals a major “change in course” as the Kings had taken Cousins off the trading block two weeks ago.
ESPN reports that the deal has been “fast-moving,” and is likely to be submitted to the league office for approval on Monday.
The move comes after years of speculation over Cousins’ future in Sacramento. Though Cousins has spoken openly about signing a five-year, $209 million contract extension to stay with the Kings, the Kings have reportedly long debated whether to hold onto the temperamental but wildly skilled center. Cousins, who has one more year left on his current contract, is averaging 28 points, 11 rebounds, five assists and one block per game on 45% shooting, 35% from three-point range.
In trading Cousins, the Kings get a promising restart on what could be massive rebuilding project. As ESPN’s Marc Stein said, the Kings believe that their slide without Cousins will help them secure their own draft pick in the 2017 draft, which goes to the Chicago Bulls if it lands outside the top 10. With the Pelicans pick also coming back, the Kings could have two lottery picks in what’s considered a deep and talented draft.
The Pelicans, meanwhile, are going to experiment with what could be the most electrifying front-court in the NBA. Cousins and Anthony Davis are among the most talented, versatile big men in the league and could create a long, tall, nightmarish tandem of scoring, floor-spacing, and rim protection for opponents.
ESPN reports that the Pelicans will look to sign Cousins to an extension worth about $179 million over five years.
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