4. DeMarcus Cousins
The oft-misunderstood big man is entering the most important year of his young career. Cousins will be an unrestricted free agent after this season and these next 82 games will be a test to see if he in fact fits with fellow big man Anthony Davis in New Orleans.
If not, the Pelicans will be forced to confront their crowded frontcourt and part with one (or both) of these talented former Kentucky Wildcats.
It didn’t work out swimmingly in the first half season, but with experience and a summer of practice under their belts, Cousins and Davis may function more smoothly next season.
While Cousins isn’t a first option, he is a dominant big man who can anchor any frontline in the league. He’s shockingly versatile for a man his size, with the ability to bring the ball up the court, make 3-pointers and distribute to teammates. On the court, he’s everything you’d want from a modern center.
It’s off the court that’s the problem. Cousins has baggage, and doesn’t have a great reputation. Still, that didn’t stop Miami from taking on Dion Waiters, Chris Andersen and other players with bad reps. While known for his temper, in a disciplined program like Miami, Cousins’ potential would be unlimited.
The Heat would relish an opportunity to further develop Cousins’ game on both ends of the floor.