DeMarcus Cousins would consider a return to the NBA

DeMarcus Cousins hasn't played in the NBA since leaving the Denver Nuggets at the end of the 2021-2022 season. The veteran big man has since been plying his trade overseas, most notably in Taiwan. However, at 34 years old, the veteran hasn't closed the door on a potential return to the NBA.

When speaking to former NBA guard Jeff Teague on the "Club 520" podcast, Cousins admitted that he would consider making a comeback if the right opportunity arose. He also noted that teams around the NBA know what he brings to the table regarding on-court production and locker-room leadership.

“I've embraced this new journey," Cousins said. "It can be a lot of reasons why I'm not in the NBA, whatever the case may be...A lot of things was said, and a lot of narratives were put on my name, some true, some not... As far as continuing to hoop, I love the game...If an opportunity comes that makes sense for me, I’ll consider it. I'll definitely look into it... You know what I bring to the floor. It’s been proven."

Cousins has suffered three major leg injuries during his career, with all of them coming within two years. Those injuries sapped a lot of his explosiveness and physicality, limiting his effectiveness when playing at the highest level. Following those injuries, he bounced around the NBA, struggling to stick with a roster.

However, he could still provide value as a veteran role player toward the end of a bench. During his time in Taiwan , Cousins averaged 24.0 points, 14.1 rebounds and 3.8 assists while shooting 57.2 percent from the field. However, his 26.2 percent from three-point range will undoubtedly concern any interested NBA team.

Cousins would make sense for both a contending team as a depth piece or a rebuilding roster as a veteran leader. Either way, he could still bring value to an NBA roster, although that value would be limited in terms of playing time.

As such, Cousins may choose to continue his career overseas where he can have a big role and be among the star players on a roster. A lot depends on what he values more. But if he does favor a return to the NBA, he could likely find a spot before the end of the season.