Cousins says he never demanded or requested a trade

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DeMarcus Cousins, after being told to stay at home and not show up at Power Balance Pavilion for the Kings' game last night for allegedly demanding a trade, claims he never requested a trade.

Cousins issued the following statement: "I want to address my missing the New Orleans game Sunday. I have not demanded or requested a trade. I don't agree with the actions taken but will give my sincere effort to put it behind me and compete the best I can for my team."

Clearly, there is a significant disconnect between Coach Paul Westphal, Kings management, and Cousins.

Yesterday, Paul Westphal stated:

"When a player continually, aggressively, lets it be known that he is unwillingunable to embrace traveling in the same direction as his team, it cannot be ignored indefinitely. DeMarcus Cousins has demanded to be traded. In the best interest of our team as we go forward, he has been directed by me, with the support of management, to stay at home from the New Orleans game."

Without Cousins on Sunday night, the Kings defeated the Hornets 96, 80. J.J. Hickson, who replaced Cousins in the starting lineup, had four points and nine rebounds in 25 minutes.

It was reported on Monday that Cousins traveled with the team to Memphis as the team takes on the Grizzlies Tuesday night.

Stay with CSNBayArea.com as this story unfolds.

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