DeMarcus Cousins reportedly cussed out Kings coach George Karl in front of the team Monday.
That’s problematic, but what happened afterward might show even more dysfunction in Sacramento.
Jason Jones of The Sacramento Bee:According to league sources, Kings coach George Karl wanted to suspend DeMarcus Cousins for two games following Tuesday morning’s team meeting after the All-Star center allegedly directed a profanity-laced tirade toward the coach. The sources asked not to be identified because they are unauthorized to speak on the matter.
The sources went on to say Kings general manager Vlade Divac said Karl did not have authority to suspend Cousins nor would grant permission.
No wonder those close to Karl believe his job is in jeopardy.
Not only did he apparently overrule Karl’s suspension request, Divac publicly acknowledged the players haven’t bought into Karl’s system. Divac also reportedly asked the players whether he should fire Karl.
Remember, Divac inherited Karl as coach. There’s little evidence those two are on the same page, maybe even less than evidence Karl and the players get along. Between the players, coaches and front office, I’m not sure any sides mesh, though maybe Divac and the players.
And then there’s owner Vivek Ranadivé, in his own world and capable of interjecting himself at any moment.
Maybe Karl was right for wanting Cousins suspends. Maybe Divac was right for not doing it.
But the Kings can’t go on like this. Something has to give.
For what it’s worth, Cousins apologized, via Marc J. Spears of Yahoo Sports:
DeMarcus Cousins apologizes in statement for words after loss Monday and says no one to blame for Kings' struggles. pic.twitter.com/qNg2zHdaqY
— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpears) November 11, 2015
That might placate everyone for now, but it won’t be easy for Karl and Cousins from here. Karl knows he lacks the power to discipline Cousins how he’d like. More worryingly, Cousins knows, too. That’s a tough dynamic to work in the best of times.
These clearly aren’t the best of times.