Lakers Investigate DeMarcus Cousins Over Recorded Threat

LOS ANGELES, CA —Los Angeles Lakers all-star DeMarcus Cousins is being investigated by the club after an audio recording surfaced of him allegedly threatening to shoot his ex-girlfriend, the Lakers confirmed Tuesday.

Cousins' allegedly threatened to shoot his ex-girlfriend if she didn't allow their seven-year-old child to come to his wedding, and she recorded the conversation, TMZ reported.

"We are aware of the allegation involving DeMarcus Cousins and, of course, take this claim seriously," according to a statement from the team. "We are in the process of gathering information and will reserve further comment at this time."

The woman filed court papers in Alabama seeking a restraining order against the Lakers' new center, according to TMZ. The threat allegedly occurred Friday during a phone call as he was asking that their son attend his wedding the next day in Atlanta.

On the audio, the male caller is heard saying, "I'm gonna ask you this one more time before I take it to another level. ... Can I have my son here, please?"

When she responds no, the male caller says, "I'm gonna make sure I put a bullet in your (expletive) head."

It is unclear if there is a criminal investigation into the alleged threat, and it remains to be seen how the incident could affect Cousins' standing with the Lakers. The team signed the 29-year-old all-star in July. Cousins previously played for the Sacramento Kings, New Orleans Pelicans and Golden State Warriors, and his signing was hailed as a major coup for the Lakers as they seek to once-again become a championship contender. He recently suffered a torn ACL in his left knee.

City News Service contributed to this report.