Ron Artest's agent, Mark Stevens, told the Kings his client "had no desire" to play for Sacramento, that he would report but "not be happy."

There were other deals on the table but the Los Angeles Lakers refused to trade Lamar Odom for Artest and Austin Croshere, and the Pacers turned down a deal with the Clippers for Corey Maggette because Maggette's foot injury may be more severe than expected and backed out.

Also the Golden State Warriors were believed to have gotten involved as recently as today, offering a package of Mike Dunleavy Jr., Calbert Cheaney and another player for Artest. But Dunleavy, who signed a five-year, $45 million extension before the season, and has a contract that would complicate the deal.