The Los Angeles Lakers were in on trade talks with the Sacramento Kings for DeMarcus Cousins, which ended up being the final business conducted by Mitch Kupchak and Jim Buss before they were relieved of their duties on Tuesday. The pursuit of Cousins was a "last-ditch attempt to save their jobs," according to a source.

Jim Buss badly wanted the Lakers to trade for Cousins, but it was Kupchak who handled the talks.

The sticking point on negotiations was reportedly the inclusion of Brandon Ingram, who the Lakers picked second overall in June.

The Lakers' inability to acquire a star over the past few years has frustrated Jeanie Buss and this was the final straw. Jeanie Buss had been convinced Cousins would settle down and thrive in their setting.