Casspi said his intent wasn't to cause problems and that he will continue to work hard and wait his turn to play.

"I haven't played in a while and coach came up to me and told me he's going in different direction – and he's not going my direction," Casspi said. "So I'm not mad at nobody or trying to cry about not playing, but it is what it is.

"So hopefully I'll be in a better situation next year."

Wespthal said he understands Casspi's frustration. Casspi has started 27 games this season so not playing isn't easy. But Francisco García has been the most consistent starter at small forward. Donté Greene is also playing well.

"He's saying the truth the way he sees it," Westphal said. "I don't agree with in particular his statement that he wants to go to a team where team play is important. Maybe that was lost in translation but that's kind of a ridiculous statement."

Kings basketball president Geoff Petrie said he hadn't heard from Casspi, and acknowledged it has to be a frustrating time for the player.

But with five games left there isn't a pressing need to do anything with Casspi, who is under contract for next season. Petrie said any talk of what to do next season is "premature."

"Ultimately the season will be over and there will be a lot of discussion about what needs to be done with the roster," Petrie said.