DeMarcus Cousins Benched Following Reported Argument with Keith Smart

The misadventures of DeMarcus Cousins continued Friday night, as Sacramento Kings coaches told the enigmatic center not to join the team for the second half of their game against the Los Angeles Clippers, according to Bryan May of KXTV-TV in Sacramento.

"

Kings coaching staff tells DeMarcus Cousins NOT to come out for the 2nd half.he will not play remainder of game.No exact reason given

— Bryan May (@BMayNews10) December 22, 2012"

James Ham of ESPN's TrueHoop network added that the Kings' television broadcast showed video of Cousins arguing with head coach Keith Smart in the first half.

"

Wow. Kings showing video of Cousins yapping at Smart before the half. That is very un-Kings like.

— James Ham (@James_Ham) December 22, 2012"

There aren't many details on the situation right now, but this doesn't look good for Cousins. The third-year player already has a reputation as a quick-tempered and immature player. He is tied for the league lead in technical fouls (seven), averaging one every 3.7 games this season. 

He's also had plenty of well-documented issues with the Kings, including when the team sent him home last season and claimed that he demanded a trade (h/t USA Today). The Kings obviously decided to keep him, but after this latest incident, it's unclear if Cousins has a future with the organization.

Cousins is undeniably one of the most talented young big men in the league, averaging 16.9 points and 9.7 rebounds per game this season. Unfortunately, his attitude has continuously got him in trouble. Just 10 days ago, he was hit with a technical for striking O.J. Mayo in the groin (h/t Yahoo! Sports). 

Before he was benched, Cousins had nine points and five rebounds in 20 minutes of action.

We will have all the updates for you when they become available.