Denver Nuggets: 3 options for the backup center role

3 options for the backup center role: DeMarcus Cousins

Once considered one of the league’s better big men, DeMarcus Cousins finds himself searching for yet another team. Cousins, whose recent injury history is a red flag for most teams, is coming off a successful season with the LA Clippers.

In 16 regular-season games, Cousins averaged 7.8 points and 4.5 rebounds on 59.7 percent true shooting. Unlike the other two centers mentioned in this article, Cousins brings offensive upside and below-average defense.

During his younger years (pre-injury), Cousins would use his athleticism and strength to bully his opponents and carve open scoring opportunities for himself. Since recovering from multiple knee injuries, Cousins has displayed a more nuanced game.

Still capable of scoring across all three levels, the Alabama native likes to approach his offense in a balanced fashion, spreading his attempts across the floor. According to Cleaning The Glass, Cousins took 59 percent of his shot attempts at the rim, 24 percent from mid-range, and 17 percent from three (with only 1 percent coming from the corners).

That type of offensive diversity would provide the Nuggets second unit with a fluid attack out of the pick-and-roll or from motion sets.

Cousins would likely sign to a contending team for a veteran minimum deal, and should he stay healthy; he would be a vital cog in a team’s second unit. With the Nuggets positioning themselves for post-season success and needing additional help at the five, Cousins could be the answer they’re looking for.