Kings' DeMarcus Cousins: Finishes preseason on high note

Cousins contributed 23 points (10-17 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 3-4 FT), eight rebounds, two assists and one steal across 26 minutes in Tuesday's 92-89 preseason loss to the Clippers.

Analysis:

Cousins is sure to remain a popular name in the trade-rumor mill this season, but the Kings haven't publicly indicated that they're considering moving on from the talented, but enigmatic big man, especially now that he's coming off a career-best year. Though he often clashed with former coach George Karl, Cousins still pumped out 26.9 points, 11.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.6 steals and 1.4 blocks per game a season ago. Things appear to be more harmonious between Cousins and new bench boss Dave Joerger, so the 26-year-old should be in line for another high-usage campaign.