Lakers Trade Rumors: Lakers haven't talked DeMarcus Cousins trade since drafting D'Angelo Russell, according to report

The Los Angeles Lakers cut negotiations with the Sacramento Kings regarding a DeMarcus Cousins trade the moment they drafted D'Angelo Russell with the No. 2 pick, reports Ramona Shelburne of ESPN. The Lakers have been focused on free agency since the NBA Draft, and neither side has re-visited the negotiation table following a blur of trade rumors.

The Kings reportedly wanted to clear out the Lakers' assets, targeting the No. 2 pick, Julius Randle, Jordan Clarkson, future draft considerations and potential salary dumps. Los Angeles, meanwhile, had no interest in including Randle in any package, and made their draft decision for the future with Russell.

This could be a play by every side involved to hold fire on any additional trade leaks and play nice now that they're definitely going separate directions. The Kings have cleared significant salary space and are making a run at signing Wesley Matthews and Rajon Rondo. The Lakers, meanwhile, look like their roster improvements will need to come from organically via the return of Randle, growth of Clarkson and potential of Russell.

Shelburne's report appears to be a fire extinguisher blasting away that trade fire and brings a clear focus to the Lakers' young talent.