NBA Preview: 5 Teams That Could Surprise In The Western Conference
Apr 13, 2014; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings center
DeMarcus Cousins(15) drives to the basket against Minnesota Timberwolves center
Gorgui Dieng(5) during the fourth quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Sacramento Kings defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 106-103. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports
Sacramento Kings
The Sacramento Kings, after lowballing Isaiah Thomas as he walked over to the Phoenix Suns this offseason, look to continue their build around DeMarcus Cousins in 2014-15 season.
They added Darren Collison, drafted Nik Stauskas and are hoping that Rudy Gay continues to play with the effectiveness that he displayed last season after being dealt over from the Toronto Raptors. Though, much of the Kings’ success this season will hinge on Cousins’ ability to take the next step in his progression — a leadership role.
After spending a summer with Team USA during the FIBA World Cup, many expect that step to be taken by Cousins. After all, you can’t spend that long with that group of players without picking up a few things.
It was a great growing experience for Cousins, and the Kings are hoping that he can translate this summer’s growth into the NBA regular season.
If he can, the Kings may be a lot better than many perceive them to be. It’s all on Cousins, though.