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‘My Brother Outside of Basketball’: John Wall Reacts to Houston Rockets’ Decision to Waive Off DeMarcus Cousins

Published 02/24/2021, 7:30 AM EST

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Houston Rockets’ season is fading into oblivion, as they continue on their eight-game losing streak. With an 11-18 record and 14th position in the Western Conference, there is hardly a chance they can book a seat in the playoffs. Even though they started the season with a bang, they don’t seem to be contenders anymore. And now, the Rockets have made their four-time NBA All-Star DeMarcus Cousins available for grabs by contending teams.

John Wall isn’t happy seeing his teammate leave

The 30-year-old veteran was trying to resuscitate his career after a string of injuries hampered his performance. In just 25 games with the Houston Rockets, he is averaging 9.6 points and 7.6 rebounds while shooting 37.6 from the floor.

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As per sources, Cousins was unhappy being the backup center behind Christian Wood. He wanted to have more playing minutes, but coach Stephen Silas only wanted Wood as the lone center on the court. However, ever since Woods has been out because of his sprained ankle, Houston has been on a downward spiral. And Cousins’ defensive limitations are creating further issues for the team.

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John Wall, who is now leading the team, was asked what he feels about the decision to waive off DeMarcus. “It’s tough,” he started off. “I understand that it’s a business. But it’s very tough for me because that’s somebody I call my brother outside of basketball. I’ve been through injuries and he’s been through the same as me.

“We haven’t gotten a chance to play together since college. We really wanted the opportunity to do that.” Although, Wall is happy that Cousins will get an opportunity to prove his worth once again. “I wish him the best of luck. I hope he can find a job very soon.”

USA Today via Reuters

Lakers in pursuit of DeMarcus Cousins?

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There aren’t many teams looking to sign the vet, but the names of those who are, aren’t shabby at all. Reigning champions Los Angeles Lakers are the team most likely to bring him in.

With a gaping hole in their roster as Anthony Davis is out for a month, the Lakers need help on the frontline. The upside to this is that Cousins played for the Lakers last year, so he has a relationship with the organization and players as well.

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Another side benefit is that this signing will keep him away from other title contenders. But is that worth the trouble Cousins brings with him defensively? Although this signing hardly makes much sense, will the purple and gold still go ahead with it?

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Written by:

Yashima Bhatia

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Yashima Bhatia is an NBA writer for EssentiallySports who specialises in providing nuanced predictions and updates for matches. She has a Bachelor's degree in journalism and mass communication. Yashima's love for playing the game came up at a young age, when the excitement of the games coupled with the intensity of the Playoffs had her hooked.
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