The Sacramento Kings and Los Angeles Lakers have exchanged the framework of a trade centered upon DeMarcus Cousins. Talks between the parties could intensify on Thursday.

The Kings started to engage with teams and explore possible trade scenarios beyond the Lakers on Wednesday.

George Karl pushed for Kings management to trade Cousins this spring and the front office and ownership have softened their stance privately on trading Cousins.

Vlade Divac has sought the No. 2 overall pick along with Julius Randle and Jordan Clarkson, as well as unloading the two remaining seasons on Carl Landry's deal.

The Lakers have no intention of including Randle for Cousins and are also reluctant to include Clarkson.