Center DeMarcus Cousins has had a difficult time the last few years. It was only three years ago that he looked to be one of the best centers in the NBA before injuries started setting him back.
On January 26th, 2018, Cousins ruptured his left Achilles as a member of the New Orleans Pelicans. He signed a deal with the Golden State Warriors in the offseason, looking to rehab his body, value for future free agency and win a ring in the process.
When he returned to the court almost a year later, he was productive. He started 30 games for the Warriors, averaging 16.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.5 blocks per game in only 25.7 minutes. He was rounding back into shape, but then suffered another significant injury in the postseason.
Cousins tore his left quad in the first round of the playoffs against the Los Angeles Clippers. Showing heart and resiliency, he did return for the NBA Finals, but was hampered by the injury still.
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The Los Angeles Lakers, looking to add depth to their center position after acquiring Anthony Davis in a blockbuster trade, signed Cousins. He looked to have put in work following the NBA Finals, as he seemed to be in great shape. Sadly, he suffered a third catastrophic injury to his left leg, this time tearing his ACL.
Cousins missed the entire 2019-20 season but was picked up by the Houston Rockets for the 2020-21 campaign. He avoided any major injuries and eventually signed with the Clippers after being bought out by Houston.
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Cousins still produced, as his per-36 minute averages of 18.5 points, 13.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.7 steals and 1.2 blocks were strong. Now, he is looking to latch on with another team.
Given that he made it through a season without injury and performed at a good level, there should be franchises that want to bring him in. Here are three teams that should look to sign Cousins in NBA free agency.
