On January 26th, all-star center DeMarcus Cousins tore his Achilles during a game when he was with the New Orleans Pelicans. The injury affected his value in free agency. Cousins did not receive a lucrative offer. On July 6th, the Golden State Warriors signed him to a one-year contract despite the injury. Cousins has not appeared in a game yet during the 2018-2019 season. But, that could all change soon. On December 10th, Cousins was assigned to the Santa Cruz Warriors, which is the NBA G-League affiliated of the Warriors. He has completed two days of full contact practice. This is a positive sign. Cousins is getting closer to making his season debut. Although he is projected to be out until February, the Warriors are already discussing implementing Cousins into the lineup. This article will project Cousins’ impact on the Warriors.
Almost Time to Boogie: DeMarcus Cousins Comeback Forecast
Immediate Impact
Cousins will quickly become a threat again in the NBA. For his career, he averages 21.5 points per game and 11 rebounds per game. Cousins is a perennial all-star and one of the most dominating players in the league. He will give a lot of teams nightmares. One of the Warriors’ weaknesses is post offense and defense. The Warriors are ranked in the middle of the NBA in offensive rebounding. A lot of teams will change the way they attack the post. The Warriors ranked 16th in the NBA in defense, allowing 110.5 points per game. That average is sure to go down with Cousins in the lineup. Plus, Cousins will be motivated to play well. He is in a contract year and is looking to secure a max deal, in which he lost the opportunity the past summer due to injury.
Style of Play
Although Cousins is a great individual player, he might run into some issues with the Warriors. The Warriors are a fast-paced shooting team. They run the floor and have a quick-striking offense. Cousins is more of a traditional center. He is a post up player. During his stint with the Pelicans, Cousins has shown he is willing to take mid-range shots, but he has not made many. A couple of months ago, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr stated he will not change the style of play for Cousins. He will need to work on shooting before he returns.
Doom For Lineup?
Whenever an impact player joins a team, a player usually will have to take a step back to accommodate the new player. Current starting center Kevon Looney will have to return to the bench some time after Cousins’ debut. Cousins is too talented of a player. Looney’s minutes will be affected. Also, Cousins will cause a small disruption in the lineup. The Warriors will have to figure out the best way to play Cousins and Draymond Green together. Green might have to be in the post more to make up for Cousins’ lack of speed.
Cousins Equals Championship?
On paper, a lineup including Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Kevin Durant, Green and Cousins should win a championship. On paper, this is the most dominating starting five in the NBA, maybe in its history. There isn’t many flaws. But, no one should crown the Warriors just yet. Chemistry will be tested once again. Cousins will have to play the Warriors’ style. He will have to alter his game to fit in. If he excels in his lessened role, the Warriors will definitely return to the NBA Finals again. Cousins is an impact player on a contending team for the first time in his career. He will be motivated to not only prove he is among the elites, but to include a title on an already impressive career.
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