NBA Rumors: Cousins May Follow Howard Story Back To Redemption with Lakers

DeMarcus Cousins was deprived of being part of the Los Angeles Lakers squad that bagged the 2019-20 NBA title. He suffered an ACL injury before the season started and this led to him being waived by the purple and gold.

Looking ahead, it would be best to note that even if he was waived, Cousins remained in Los Angeles. Several teams have been linked to the 30-year-old All-Star center but it appears he has his heart set on suiting up for the Lakers next NBA season.

There is no official word on how well Cousins has recovered from that ACL injury he sustained in August 2019. He decided to pass on the Florida bubble to give his injury more time to heal. Even if he does successfully return, it remains that Cousins will have a long grind ahead before he can recall his old form.

For the Lakers, giving Cousins that chance that eluded him makes sense. Dwight Howard is a free agent while there is no word if JaVale McGee will opt-in. If Cousins is re-signed, the guy who will likely be gone is Howard unless the Lakers pull off something to move McGee instead (if he opts in).

Howard is likely to draw some interest as well. Though he did not play extensively, the many-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year proved he could be an asset even in a supporting role. The 6-foot-11 center will seek better pay, way much higher than what he settled for with the Lakers.

Cousins is expected to take it slow if ever he is given the green light to play next season. Considering the brunt of the load is on LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Cousins may focus more on protecting the rim, passing and rebounding. He is still expected to score though that will not be his primary role.

Like Howard, Cousins will be on a redemption tour next season. There is no telling how much the Lakers will offer him. It won’t come as a surprise if he gets a one-year deal first to prove himself. But if Boogie does prove he can still play at the same All-Star level, his best bet of putting his career back on track may be after the 2020-21 season.