What Happened To Demarcus Cousins?

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DeMarcus Cousins, once a dominant force in the NBA, has had a career filled with ups and downs. From his early days as a promising talent to his struggles with injuries and team dynamics, Cousins’ journey has been anything but straightforward. This article delves into the career of DeMarcus Cousins, exploring the events that have shaped his path in professional basketball.

Early Career and Rise to Stardom

DeMarcus Cousins, also known as “Boogie,” made a name for himself early on in his NBA career. Drafted fifth overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 2010 NBA Draft, Cousins quickly became one of the league’s most talented big men. His combination of size, skill, and intensity made him a formidable opponent on the court.

  • Named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2011
  • Selected to the NBA All-Star Game four times (2015-2018)
  • Averaged over 20 points and 10 rebounds per game in multiple seasons

Challenges with the Sacramento Kings

Despite his individual success, Cousins’ tenure with the Kings was marred by controversy and team struggles. The Kings failed to make the playoffs during his time there, and Cousins was often at the center of team discord.

  • Frequent clashes with coaches and management
  • Multiple technical fouls and on-court incidents
  • Trade rumors and speculation about his future with the team

The Trade to New Orleans Pelicans

In February 2017, Cousins was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans, a move that was supposed to mark a new chapter in his career. Teaming up with fellow All-Star Anthony Davis, Cousins had the opportunity to form one of the most formidable frontcourts in the league.

  • Formed a “Twin Towers” duo with Anthony Davis
  • Helped lead the Pelicans to the playoffs in the 2017-2018 season
  • Suffered a devastating Achilles injury in January 2018

The Achilles Injury and Its Aftermath

The Achilles injury was a significant setback for Cousins. It not only ended his season prematurely but also raised questions about his future in the NBA. Achilles injuries are notorious for being difficult to recover from, especially for big men who rely on their explosiveness.

  • Missed the remainder of the 2017-2018 season and the playoffs
  • Faced a lengthy rehabilitation process
  • Became a free agent in the summer of 2018

Signing with the Golden State Warriors

In a surprising move, Cousins signed a one-year deal with the Golden State Warriors in July 2018. Joining a team that had won three of the last four NBA championships, Cousins aimed to prove he could return to form and contribute to a winning team.

  • Joined a star-studded lineup featuring Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green
  • Made his debut for the Warriors in January 2019 after recovering from his Achilles injury
  • Helped the Warriors reach the 2019 NBA Finals

Another Injury Setback

Just as Cousins was finding his rhythm with the Warriors, he suffered a quadriceps injury in the first round of the 2019 playoffs. This injury sidelined him for most of the postseason, although he returned to play in the NBA Finals.

  • Missed significant playoff time due to the quadriceps injury
  • Returned for the NBA Finals but was unable to help the Warriors secure the championship
  • Became a free agent again after the 2018-2019 season

Short Stints and Searching for Stability

Following his time with the Warriors, Cousins’ career became characterized by short-term contracts and a search for stability. He signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in July 2019 but tore his ACL during pre-season workouts, which led to the Lakers waiving him in February 2020.

  • Never played a regular-season game for the Lakers due to the ACL injury
  • Briefly joined the Houston Rockets in the 2020-2021 season
  • Played for the Los Angeles Clippers on two 10-day contracts before signing for the remainder of the 2020-2021 season

Impact of Injuries on Cousins’ Career

The series of injuries that Cousins has suffered has undoubtedly impacted his career trajectory. Once considered one of the most dominant centers in the game, his injuries have raised concerns about his durability and long-term prospects in the NBA.

  • Achilles, quadriceps, and ACL injuries have limited his playing time and effectiveness
  • Has had to adapt his game and expectations following injuries
  • Continues to work towards a full recovery and return to form

DeMarcus Cousins’ Legacy

Despite the challenges he has faced, Cousins’ talent and impact on the game cannot be understated. His ability to score, rebound, and play with intensity has made him a memorable figure in the NBA.

  • Known for his fiery competitiveness and emotional play
  • Has left a mark as one of the most skilled big men of his generation
  • Continues to influence the game as a veteran presence

FAQ Section

What was DeMarcus Cousins’ most productive season?

Cousins’ most productive season was arguably the 2016-2017 season, where he averaged 27.0 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game.

Has DeMarcus Cousins won an NBA championship?

No, DeMarcus Cousins has not won an NBA championship. He came closest in 2019 with the Golden State Warriors, but they were defeated by the Toronto Raptors in the Finals.

Is DeMarcus Cousins still playing in the NBA?

As of the last update, DeMarcus Cousins has been seeking opportunities to play in the NBA after short stints with various teams. His status can change as teams assess their needs and Cousins’ health and fitness.

Conclusion

DeMarcus Cousins’ career has been a rollercoaster of high expectations, incredible performances, and unfortunate injuries. From his early days with the Sacramento Kings to his attempts at an NBA comeback, Cousins has faced adversity with resilience. His journey serves as a testament to the unpredictable nature of professional sports and the relentless spirit required to overcome challenges. As he continues to navigate his career, Cousins remains a figure of interest and inspiration in the world of basketball.

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