I think Malone chose SAC over LAC for a number of reasons. Most likely job security, the Sac job will be viewed as a project, I'm sure Vivek gave Malone the word that "you are my guy", the organization will stick with Malone for the long haul, even if there are issues with Cousins. Vivek will trade cousins over looking for a new coach, and for good reason. In LA it would be at the minimum a WCF appearance or bust, not to mention having to work for Donald Sterling. Second i'm sure he and his family have settled in North Cali, and don't want to move to the big city of LA.
So it was go to SAC with the owner behind you where there is less pressure to win now, but this is your team now. Or go to LA where you will come in as a mercenary with a reckless owner, albeit much better roster.