The free agent market for center DeMarcus Cousins isn't expected to be grandiose by any means. However, the big man is still just 31 years old and can provide a team with value. He grabbed over 5 rebounds per game in limited minutes with the Denver Nuggets during this past year. He also averaged 9 points per game.
So where might DeMarcus Cousins end up? There are three teams that standout as destinations for the veteran center.
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3 best destinations for DeMarcus Cousins in 2022 NBA Free Agency
The Mavericks have depth on the wing. However, they could use quality help in the post. The recent addition of Christian Wood lessens the possibility of Cousins heading to Dallas, but he could be a nice depth piece.
If Dallas decides to deal one of Maxi Kleber or Dwight Powell away, Cousins could fit in as a replacement as well.
Also, playing with someone as special as Luka Doncic would likely appeal to Cousins.
Cousins would be especially beneficial for the Mavs on the boards. He could be a valuable rebounder who adds a bit of interior scoring prowess. But in the end, this would likely only happen if the Mavs traded one of their big men who is currently on the roster.
The Atlanta Hawks could utilize DeMarcus Cousins on their roster.
Their current big men include Clint Capela, Onyeka Okongwu, and John Collins. Collins and Capela have been mentioned in trade rumors, but Cousins would be a fit whether they are traded or not. Atlanta wouldn't mind the rebound help either.
If Atlanta ends up landing Dejounte Murray, Cousins would be even more beneficial. The Hawks strength would be their backcourt with Trae Young and Dejounte Murray. Cousins would consistently be used as a glass cleaning big man. Young and Murray's playmaking ability could lead to open looks as well.
This would be a good fit for all parties involved. The Hawks wouldn't need to spend much for Cousins, who might end up being one of the more underrated signings of the offseason.
1. Denver Nuggets
DeMarcus Cousins was once considered one of, if not the best center in the NBA. But injuries ultimately derailed his stardom in the league. But he knows what it takes to be great in the NBA.
And that's why I love him in a mentor-type role for Nikola Jokic on the Denver Nuggets.
Nikola Jokic is a reigning MVP who is one of the game's best players. But other teams have begun to narrow in on Jokic and do everything they can to limit him. However, teams used to approach Cousins in a similar manner.
And Cousins would be beneficial for the Nuggets on the court as well. His production for Denver last year was impressive. Cousins ability to grab rebounds and score in the interior helped Denver immensely off the bench. Opposing defenses never were able to catch a break in the post between Nikola Jokic and DeMarcus Cousins.
Although Cousins isn't the player he once was, the big man still possesses the IQ to excel in the post game.
Final Thoughts
DeMarcus Cousins won't be the most sought out free agent this offseason. But there will be a market for him in 2022 NBA Free Agency. He will need to be patient, but Cousins would be a good fit on one of these three teams.
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