Latest rumors are out that the Boston Celtics could land Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins before this season's February trade deadline.
It is not surprising to hear Cousins' name being linked to the Celtics at this point of the season as Boston has always expressed interest in the mercurial big man since last year.
However, this time, the situation is different as Cousins is slowly reaching unrestricted free-agency while the Kings are still struggling to have a winning season with the former Kentucky standout as the leading man.
Cousins is in the third year of his four-year, $65.6 million contract with the Kings, which would make him an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2018. While the seven-year pro has not given any indications that he plans to move to another team by then, it would be safe for Sacramento to assume such scenario than risk losing Cousins for nothing when that time comes.
Bleacher Report indicated that Cousins to Boston "seemed pretty unlikely" to transpire because of two premises: (1.) the Kings must show willingness to trade their franchise player and (2.) the Celtics must be prepared to give up the first-round pick they acquired from the Brooklyn Nets, which would almost certainly become a top-five selection next summer.
The report noted that neither conditions are not likely to happen at this point of the season. However, it could all change as the February trade deadline draws near if both teams are still not satisfied with their respective performances.
Boston definitely needs improvement at the center spot as newly-acquired big man Al Horford seemed to be more comfortable operating as a power forward. A Cousins-Horford pairing would instantly become one of the most versatile frontcourts in the league and one of the most dangerous as well that could propel the Celtics to championship contention.
However, Cousins himself is not expecting to go anywhere despite all the trade rumors surrounding him.
"I talk to management a lot," Cousins recently told reporters, via ESPN. "We're on the same page. I'm not worried about it."
"To know that you're wanted throughout the league... I'd be worried if nobody wanted me. Then I'd have a situation on my hands. But I'm happy where I am. I'm happy with this team. I'm in a great place."