The Houston Rockets and center DeMarcus Cousins reportedly are planning to part ways.
Houston reportedly wants to go younger in its frontcourt with the return of Christian Wood and wants to give Cousins an opportunity to find a new home.
The Houston Rockets and center DeMarcus Cousins are planning to part ways in coming days, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Houston wants to go smaller, younger in frontcourt when Christian Wood returns and this allows Cousins to find an opportunity elsewhere.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 20, 2021
It is a surprising move, as Houston guaranteed Cousins’ salary for the rest of the season on Feb. 19
The Houston Rockets have guaranteed center DeMarcus Cousins' $2.3M contract for the rest of the season, sources tell ESPN. Teams have until February 27 to make that decision on non-guaranteed deals.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 19, 2021
Now, Cousins will likely look to latch on with a contender.
After suffering several brutal injuries, including an Achilles tear and a torn ACL over the past few seasons, Cousins has rebounded nicely during the 2020-21 campaign.
The four-time All-Star is averaging 9.6 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.4 assists in 20.2 minutes per game this season.
Houston is currently 11-17 this season and is looking to get a look at its young core as it begins a rebuild.
Cousins should latch on with a contender if he is simply released by Houston.
