DeMarcus Cousins is arguably the best big man in the entire NBA. The center consistently throws up mind-blowing stat lines, and many can make the legitimate argument that he got snubbed of a starting spot in the 2017 NBA All-Star Game.
Since he was drafted by the Sacramento Kings years ago however, Cousins has struggled to find stability and a large part of that is thanks to Sacramento’s seemingly dysfunctional front office. This year has proven to be no less adversity-filled, as trade rumors surrounding Cousins, Rudy Gay and other pieces has resulted in building tension. The recent injury sustained by Gay and his looming free agency has also added to the feeling of a small window.
The only thing separating this team from previous years squads is the increase in wins and an all of a sudden shallow Western Conference, leaving the 8th and final spot for the playoffs wide open. After the Kings 109-104 victory last night over the Detroit Pistons, Boogie voiced his feelings toward their desperate push for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. Following from James Ham of CSN Bay Area:
Following Sacramento’s win at the Palace at Auburn Hills, DeMarcus Cousins was asked about the playoff picture.
“It’s my only goal this season,” Cousins told reporters following the game. “My only goal.”
When pushed on the subject, he gave a more complete answer.
“Oh man, it’s eating me alive – every loss or every time another team wins that’s battling for the eighth spot, it’s eating me alive,” Cousins added. “Our only goal is to be in the playoffs this season.”
The statement from Cousins should come as no surprise as during his career he’s been known to be one of the fieriest and most emotional players in the entire NBA. Sactown currently sits a game and a half out of the 8th seed, so advancing to the postseason is certainly an attainable goal.
With the pursuit for that final Western Conference playoff spot beginning to heat up as the all-star game approaches, the Kings should continue to dig themselves out of their hole and try to put an end to their exhaustive playoff drought.
