Speaking to ESPN.com's Andy Katz after his dismissal, Theus said: "I had no idea [in advance]. We were just coming off our best win [over the Lakers] the past two years. We've had a lot of injuries. ... Everyone knew we were rebuilding and the projection was for 20-25 wins."

Theus added that Kings president Geoff Petrie -- not either of the Maloof brothers who own the team -- was the person who informed him of the decision Monday. As of Sunday night, Theus said he had no inkling that he was about to be fired.