DeMarcus Cousins debuted this Sunday with the Denver Nuggets jersey in a game that ended in victory against the Detroit Pistons. Despite not being particularly successful – he missed six of the seven shots he attempted in his twelve minutes on the court – Colorado’s coaching staff has been delighted with his signing on a ten-day contract.
Specifically, coach Michael Malone shared his surprise that the center was still without a team since the Milwaukee Bucks did not guarantee his contract at the beginning of this month of January. “This guy was sitting at home waiting for his phone to ring after playing very well in Milwaukee,” said the coach according to the media. The Denver Post. “It seems crazy to me. I don’t know if people are afraid of him or what. I do not. I love it.”
For his part, teammate Austin Rivers noted the value and consistency Cousins can bring to the second unit. “Everyone knows he’s a enforcer“, declared the guard. “You still have to get your legs back but it’s going to be big for this team. Especially since that second unit. It will be a problem for rivals.”
Malone shared his agreement with his pupil’s statements. “This is the mentality that the group needs. It has to be hard. It’s not just about going out, executing the attack and everything being beautiful. We have to be physical. And if he can do that it will help our team a lot.”
If Cousins picks up the baton and lives up to these expectations, the temporary deal could extend beyond January. The Nuggets need players in the interior game and there is an unfilled vacancy in the roster. Could it be for DeMarcus?
(Cover photo by Ethan Mito/Clarkson Creative/Getty Images)