Lakers Rumors: Rumored targets the Lakers should avoid
By Jason Reed
DeMarcus Cousins
Before being traded to the New Orleans Pelicans, the Lakers seemed to be the most favorable landing spot for the former Sacramento big man. Heck, even after the deal to the Pelicans the Lakers talks continued, with Cousins reportedly still interested in joining the Lakers down the road. This has caused many Laker fans to await the potential arrival of Cousins.
If the Lakers were to ever acquire the big man it would have to be in free agency. Cousins will be a free agent after next season, and with the Pelicans seemingly all in on this Anthony Davis-Cousins front court I doubt they would trade him. This allows the Lakers to keep the pieces they have as they do not have to trade away a young star for Cousins.
Heck, that same offseason Paul George will be a free agent, who is perhaps the most likely to join the Los Angeles Lakers. Bringing in both Cousins and George would be special, as it would give the Lakers to stars to put around their developing guys. This seemingly would instantly turn them into title contenders after years of being a lottery team.
Except, while it seems perfect on paper, it really isn’t for the Lakers. As talented as Cousins is, his on the court behavior is not worth the headache, or the money, for the Lakers. The team needs to bring in veteran guys that can help this young core grow. Cousins has shown he can’t do that, often setting a bad image for whatever franchise he is playing for.
With the long history of the Lakers, I doubt they would want to bring in a guy that would tarnish their image.