The New York Knicks have had a few failed attempts at signing a new backup center this offseason, and they might begin the season with an incomplete roster despite some promising additions. One potential player they could consider is a former NBA All-Star who has been trying to make a comeback.
**Demarcus Cousins could be an option for the Knicks**
At 34, Cousins is a four-time All-Star but hasn’t played in the NBA for the past two seasons. Last year, he played for the Beer Leopards in Taiwan, where he helped his team win the T1 League championship and was named Finals MVP.
Cousins began his career with the Sacramento Kings and was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in 2017. Since 2019, he’s had stints with the Rockets, Clippers, Bucks, and Nuggets. His career averages include 19.6 points, 10.2 rebounds, 1.1 blocks, and 1.3 steals, with 46% shooting from the field and 33% from three-point range.
While Cousins is no longer in his prime, his recent performances in Taiwan show that he still has skills to offer. The Knicks wouldn’t need him to play at an All-Star level but rather provide stability as a backup to starting center Mitchell Robinson. Cousins’ offensive versatility could be a valuable addition to the Knicks‘ bench.
**Cousins isn’t rushing back to the NBA**
On the Club 520 Podcast, Cousins shared that while he’s open to returning to the NBA, he’s not actively trying to convince teams to sign him. He believes his abilities are proven, and if a team is genuinely interested, they’ll reach out:
“I’m not going to go out trying to convince these guys anymore,” Cousins said. “You know what I bring to the floor. It’s been proven… I’m done with the convincing.”
While there’s no indication that the Knicks are currently negotiating with Cousins, he could emerge as a candidate to strengthen their roster before training camp begins.
