NBA: Predicting the landing spots for the top 15 free agents
DeMarcus Cousins (UFA)
It was only a little over two years ago when we were talking about DeMarcus Cousins being in the best center of the league conversation. Nowadays, he’s shown to be a liability in the pick-and-roll and looks like a shell of that six-time All-Star we know and love.
Cousins is in a very tricky spot here. It’s extremely doubtful he’d get a long-term deal knowing his health history, and at this point, he may be a consolation prize for teams who strike out on the top-end free agents (Knicks, Lakers, or Clippers maybe?). Anywhere he goes, the 29-year-old is going to have to take a one-year prove-it deal.
Going back to Golden State, however, may be Boogie’s best bet at securing that coveted long-term deal he was seeking before he tore his Achilles two years ago. And why wouldn’t he? He’s already familiar with the environment, and the impending departure of another key piece on that team should open up some more minutes, touches, and shots for him, making everybody remember he is a fine post scorer.
There is no logical reason for him to bolt from a sure-fire expanded role, especially if one guy leaves and the other will be out for a greater portion of the following season.