"Because Stone's background is office, while Dupree's background is retail, it is likely that Cuz will emphasize office over retail development," says the Feb. 15 newsletter authored by David Shulman and Stuart Axelrod. "Because Dan Dupree is so highly regarded, we suspect that (the stock price of) Cuz will be under pressure this morning."

The analysts, however, continue to give the REIT a "buy" salute, projecting it will reach a $32 per share target at an undetermined date. "With Stone being the chosen nominee of chairman and 19% owner Tom Cousins, we would be buyers on weakness," the analysts say. The company recently authorized a $2 million share buyback which would likely be used should the share price decline," Shulman and Axelrod say in their report.

The report says Dupree is leaving Cousins after five years to participate in "a non-profit sports venture." Dupree couldn't be reached by GlobeSt.com today for comment on his future plans and why he is leaving the company at this time. His office also couldn't confirm the Lehman information to GlobeSt.com. Lehman's Axelrod tells GlobeSt.com he doesn't have further details on the non-profit venture with which Dupree will be associated. One of Dupree's non-corporate activities is coaching a local Buckhead Baseball League team in metro Atlanta.