Top 5 Centers: Western Conference

1. DeMarcus Cousins

Two of the biggest problems in Cousins’ career has been his attitude and team. DeMarcus Cousins plays for the Sacramento Kings. The Kings have had a different coach almost every single year Cousins has been in the league. This makes it difficult to develop chemistry and culture. Along with this, Cousins has voiced his confusion for the Kings signings and draft choices.

https://twitter.com/boogiecousins/status/746149291249410050

The Kings have missed the playoffs year after year and because of this Cousins has been seriously undervalued.

Shaq has repeatedly called Cousins the best center in the league.

Cousins is the only center with multiple low post moves who can score over either shoulder, spot up off of pick and rolls, face up big men, and shoot a little from three.

At this point it’s almost a crime how underrated he is.

Last season, he shot 47.3% from 2-point range. Also, he attempted 210 3-point shots, a good sample size, and made 33.3% of them.

What’s best is Cousins’ production in other areas don’t drop off because of his work load. Last season, he averaged 26.9 points per game and 11.5 rebounds, with 9.1 of those being defensive rebounds.

While Cousins is not known as a great low post defender and shot blocker like DeAmdre Jordan, he still managed to get 1.4 blocks per game.

What people might be surprised about is that Cousins averaged 3.3 assists last year. He’s one of the best passing big men in the league.

Cousins is a very well rounded player.

When evaluating Cousins it’s important to separate his team’s lack of success from his production.

Last season, Cousins was 11th in player efficiency ratings. Behind Enes Kanter at 10th.