DeMarcus Cousins Ignores NBA Champions to Name Paul George in Greatest Starting 5 of Ex-Teammates

Before injuries derailed his career, 4× NBA All-Star DeMarcus Cousins was regarded as one of the most talented centers in the NBA. In 12 years, from his early days with the Sacramento Kings to his final stint with the Denver Nuggets, Cousins played alongside numerous greats. These connections shaped his illustrious career, leaving lasting impressions. However, in a recent podcast, he created a 5 man team featuring himself that included some choices that raised fans’ eyebrows.

In a recent episode of the Knuckleheads podcast, DeMarcus Cousins was asked to name the ultimate starting 5 from his former teammates, including himself. This task led him to reflect on the impressive roster of stars he played with. His selections, while mostly expected, featured one choice that particularly intrigued fans. Cousins chose himself, Anthony Davis, Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, and surprisingly, Paul George, a player who has never won an NBA championship.

Interestingly, Cousins also played with 6× NBA All-Star and 2023 champion Nikola Jokic, 8× All-Star and 2021 champion Giannis Antetokounmpo, and 5× All-Star and four-time champion Klay Thompson. Yet, he picked George, a 9× All-Star who, despite 14 years in the league with the Indiana Pacers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Clippers, and currently the Philadelphia 76ers, has not secured a championship ring.

Naturally, fans wondered why Cousins chose George over other decorated players. If we analyze his choices, it becomes apparent that Cousins prioritized building a powerful yet balanced squad. Each selection seems to focus not only on individual skills but also on positional fit and overall team synergy.

Firstly, Cousins placed himself at center. For power forward, he picked Anthony Davis, his teammate from the 2020 Lakers season. Next, he chose Kevin Durant as the small forward, recalling their time together during the 2018-19 season with the Golden State Warriors. For point guard, he selected Stephen Curry, also from his Warriors days. For the shooting guard position, Cousins initially considered both Paul George and ten-time All-Star James Harden but ultimately decided on George.

DeMarcus Cousins and Paul George’s Mutual Admiration

In 2021, DeMarcus Cousins joined the LA Clippers on a 10-day contract. When the management decided to extend Cousins’ contract for the entire season, Paul George expressed his happiness, stating, “We love it.”

Moreover, George praised Cousins’ skills, saying, “We’ve got a finisher, a playmaker, a three-point shooter.” Despite George’s enthusiasm, Cousins played only 16 games that season, all from the bench. He averaged 7.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and provided 1 assist per game. After this brief stint, Cousins moved on to join the Milwaukee Bucks.

Interestingly, Cousins also showed unwavering support for George. Early in the 2021 season, when George faced criticism from fans, Cousins stood by him. “He’s one of the most talented players I’ve ever seen lace ‘em up. We gotta stop the PG slander. It just won’t be accepted around me,” Cousins declared in a post-match interview. He emphasized his admiration for George, vowing to always praise him whenever given the chance.

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting pilot episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and SEC All-Freshman Team Selection, Silas Demary Jr.