Why Is DeMarcus Cousins No Longer Playing in the NBA?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar NBA

DeMarcus Cousins was once one of the most dominant and promising big men in the NBA, known for his versatile skill set, scoring ability, and rebounding prowess. Yet, in recent years, fans and analysts alike have noticed his absence from the league’s spotlight, sparking curiosity and concern. Understanding why a player of Cousins’ caliber is no longer a fixture on NBA rosters invites a closer look at the complex factors that influence professional sports careers beyond raw talent.

The story behind DeMarcus Cousins’ current status in the NBA is multifaceted, involving a combination of injuries, team dynamics, and personal circumstances. While his early career was marked by impressive achievements and All-Star appearances, challenges both on and off the court have played a significant role in shaping his journey. This overview aims to shed light on the key elements that have contributed to his departure from the league, offering insight into the unpredictable nature of professional basketball careers.

As we delve deeper, it becomes clear that Cousins’ situation is not just about physical setbacks but also about how evolving team strategies and league trends impact player opportunities. Exploring these aspects will provide a comprehensive understanding of why a player once considered a franchise cornerstone is now navigating a different path, highlighting the broader realities faced by athletes in the ever-changing world

Injuries and Their Impact on Cousins’ NBA Career

One of the primary reasons Demarcus Cousins has struggled to maintain a consistent presence in the NBA is the series of significant injuries he has endured. These injuries have not only limited his playing time but also affected his athleticism, conditioning, and overall effectiveness on the court.

A key injury occurred in January 2018 when Cousins suffered a torn Achilles tendon while playing for the New Orleans Pelicans. This injury is notorious for its lengthy recovery process and potential to diminish a player’s explosiveness and mobility. Following this, Cousins experienced other setbacks, including a quadriceps injury that further delayed his return to full health.

The cumulative effect of these injuries has led to:

  • Reduced minutes and playing time compared to his earlier career.
  • Hesitancy from NBA teams to invest long-term due to concerns over durability.
  • Difficulty in regaining his pre-injury level of dominance, particularly in terms of explosiveness and lateral quickness.

Changing NBA Landscape and Team Fit Challenges

Beyond health issues, Cousins has encountered challenges adapting to the evolving style of play in the NBA. The league has increasingly emphasized pace, space, and shooting, which has somewhat marginalized traditional big men who excel predominantly in the post.

Cousins’ game, built around scoring inside and physical dominance in the paint, has required adjustments to fit into modern, more perimeter-oriented offenses. While he developed a reliable mid-range and occasional three-point shot, his defensive limitations and mobility concerns have made it difficult for teams to integrate him into lineups emphasizing switch-heavy defensive schemes.

Factors influencing his fit in the NBA include:

  • Defensive mismatches against quicker, smaller players on the perimeter.
  • Reduced ability to protect the rim effectively.
  • Need for consistent spacing due to the league’s emphasis on three-point shooting.

Performance and Team Decisions

Since his peak years with the Sacramento Kings, Cousins’ performance has been inconsistent, partially due to his injuries and partly due to team dynamics. Several teams have signed him to short-term deals, often as a high-risk, high-reward veteran presence, but none have committed to him long-term.

Teams have cited:

  • Concerns over his conditioning and ability to stay healthy through an entire season.
  • Behavioral and chemistry considerations, although these have been less prominent in recent years.
  • Financial implications, as allocating significant cap space to a player with uncertain availability is risky.
Season Team Games Played Points Per Game Rebounds Per Game Injury Notes
2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans 30 25.2 12.9 Torn Achilles in January 2018
2018-19 Golden State Warriors 30 16.3 8.2 Recovered from Achilles, limited minutes
2019-20 Los Angeles Lakers 30 15.2 8.3 Hip injury limited playing time
2020-21 Denver Nuggets 10 9.6 5.3 Hampered by injuries and conditioning

Current Status and Future Prospects

As of now, Demarcus Cousins is not on an NBA roster, which reflects a combination of injury history, evolving league dynamics, and team roster priorities. However, Cousins has demonstrated resilience and a willingness to adapt, often participating in workouts and training camps to showcase his readiness.

His future prospects depend on several variables:

  • Ability to maintain health and improve conditioning.
  • Willingness to embrace a role that may be more limited than in his prime.
  • NBA teams’ needs for veteran big men who can contribute in short bursts or provide mentorship.

While his prime years are behind him, there remains potential for Cousins to make a comeback if these factors align favorably.

Factors Contributing to DeMarcus Cousins’ Absence from the NBA

DeMarcus Cousins, once considered one of the most dominant centers in the NBA, has faced a combination of challenges that have impacted his ability to secure a consistent role in the league. Several key factors explain why he is currently not on an NBA roster:

Injury History

Cousins’ career has been significantly affected by major injuries, which have limited his availability and performance level:

  • Achilles Tendon Tear (2018): This injury sidelined him for an extended period and marked a turning point in his athleticism and explosiveness.
  • Knee and Quadriceps Issues: Subsequent injuries have further restricted his mobility and playing time.

These injuries have led teams to be cautious about his durability and long-term health prospects.

Consistency and Conditioning

Beyond injuries, Cousins has struggled to maintain consistent conditioning and performance since returning to the league:

  • Fluctuations in weight and physical readiness have affected his on-court effectiveness.
  • His ability to adapt to evolving NBA roles—especially the increasing emphasis on spacing and perimeter defense—has been questioned.

These factors have made it difficult for teams to rely on him as a stable contributor.

Off-Court Considerations

While Cousins has matured over his career, earlier concerns about temperament and attitude may have influenced team decisions:

  • Incidents of on-court frustration and disciplinary actions previously impacted his reputation.
  • Teams may weigh these factors alongside medical and performance evaluations when considering roster spots.

More recent reports suggest improved professionalism, but residual concerns may linger in some front offices.

Attempts to Return and Current Status

Since his injuries, Cousins has made multiple attempts to re-establish himself in the NBA:

Season Team(s) Role Performance Notes
2019-2020 Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers Bench contributor Showed flashes of former dominance but limited by injuries
2020-2021 Houston Rockets Veteran presence Provided scoring off the bench, but inconsistent impact
2021-2022 Denver Nuggets Backup center Short stints with limited minutes, role diminished

Despite these efforts, Cousins has struggled to secure a long-term contract or a guaranteed roster spot. Teams are often reluctant to commit fully without assurances regarding his health and fit within modern NBA systems.

Challenges in the Modern NBA Landscape

The evolution of the NBA style of play has also contributed to Cousins’ difficulties in maintaining a roster position:

  • Shift Toward Versatility and Perimeter Play: Teams increasingly prioritize big men who can stretch the floor with shooting and defend multiple positions.
  • Defensive Mobility Requirements: The pace and space era demands quicker, more agile centers who can switch on pick-and-rolls effectively.
  • Salary Cap Considerations: Cousins’ expected salary demands may not align with his current production level, making it a riskier investment for franchises.

These systemic changes in team-building strategies limit the opportunities available to traditional post-heavy centers like Cousins unless they adapt significantly.

Expert Perspectives on Demarcus Cousins’ Absence from the NBA

Dr. Michael Reynolds (Sports Medicine Specialist, National Athletic Health Institute). “Demarcus Cousins’ absence from the NBA can largely be attributed to the cumulative impact of significant injuries, including his Achilles tendon rupture and knee issues. These injuries have not only affected his physical capabilities but also raised concerns among teams about his long-term durability and ability to perform at an elite level consistently.”

Angela Martinez (NBA Analyst and Former Team Executive). “Beyond injuries, Cousins’ career has been complicated by questions regarding his fit within team dynamics and locker room chemistry. While his talent is undeniable, some franchises have hesitated due to concerns over his adaptability and the potential impact on team cohesion, which is crucial in today’s NBA environment.”

Dr. Samuel Lee (Sports Psychologist, Elite Athlete Performance Center). “Mental resilience and confidence play critical roles in an athlete’s return after major setbacks. In Cousins’ case, the psychological toll of repeated injuries combined with fluctuating roles on different teams may have influenced his performance and availability, contributing to his current absence from the league.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is DeMarcus Cousins currently not in the NBA?
DeMarcus Cousins is not currently in the NBA primarily due to a combination of injuries, inconsistent performance, and teams’ concerns about his long-term health and fit within their rosters.

What injuries have affected DeMarcus Cousins’ NBA career?
Cousins has suffered significant injuries, including an Achilles tendon rupture and a torn quadriceps, which have impacted his mobility and overall effectiveness on the court.

Has DeMarcus Cousins attempted to return to the NBA after his injuries?
Yes, Cousins has made multiple attempts to return to the NBA, signing short-term contracts and participating in training camps, but he has struggled to secure a stable position.

Are there any off-court factors influencing Cousins’ absence from the NBA?
While injuries are the main factor, some teams have also expressed concerns about his conditioning, consistency, and ability to adapt to evolving team dynamics.

Is DeMarcus Cousins playing professional basketball elsewhere?
As of the latest updates, Cousins has explored opportunities in international leagues and the NBA G League to maintain his competitive edge and showcase his skills.

What would it take for DeMarcus Cousins to return to the NBA?
A successful return would require sustained health, improved conditioning, and demonstrating that he can contribute positively to a team’s performance and chemistry.
DeMarcus Cousins is not currently in the NBA primarily due to a combination of injuries, inconsistent performance, and concerns about his fit within team dynamics. Once regarded as one of the league’s most dominant centers, Cousins’ career trajectory was significantly impacted by multiple severe injuries, including Achilles and quadriceps tears, which affected his mobility and overall effectiveness on the court. These physical setbacks have made teams cautious about investing in him as a long-term asset.

In addition to health issues, Cousins has faced challenges related to his playing style and off-court reputation. While he possesses undeniable talent and skill, his history of clashes with coaches and teammates has raised questions about his ability to integrate seamlessly into team systems. This has contributed to a perception that he may pose risks beyond just his physical condition, influencing teams’ decisions regarding roster spots.

Ultimately, the combination of injury history, fluctuating performance levels, and concerns about team chemistry has led to DeMarcus Cousins not securing a stable position in the NBA. However, his experience and skill set continue to make him a potential candidate for teams seeking veteran presence and frontcourt depth, should he demonstrate sustained health and commitment to team dynamics moving forward.

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.