NBA Free Agency: 3 reasons why the New York Knicks should not sign DeMarcus Cousins

#2 His on-court impact and combustible attitude

Cousins hasn't transcended into a franchise player and could also prove troublesome with the Knicks

When selected by the Kings in 2010, Cousins was widely regarded as a franchise player. It's safe to say this label no longer applies to the man affectionately known as Boogie.

He does average 21.2 points and 10.9 rebounds per game for an impressive double-double in his career to date and was averaging 25.2 points during the 17/18 campaign before being sidelined with an Achilles injury. However, the All-Star played six-and-a-half seasons for the Kings and didn't help lead the franchise to the playoffs in all that time.

During the 17/18 season when the Pelicans did make the playoffs, Cousins was nowhere to be seen through injury. In fact, his only meaningful post-season games came as a Warrior in recent months - where he only managed to partake in eight of their 22 NBA playoff games.

Also in this era of shooters, Cousins is a below-average distance shooter - averaging just 33.2% from three-point range in his career. While improving just before he got hurt (35.4% in 17/18), he doesn't have the consistent track record of a Brook Lopez-type on the perimeter and has now played just 78 regular games over the last two seasons.

In addition to his injury woes, he's also missed significant game time through suspensions due to his attitude and troublesome behaviour. Although he's available and a fine talent, he's not a leader - the Knicks don't need him mixing with their young, developing players.

Combustible attitude, troublesome behavioural issues

Ultimately though, he is a poor example of how to be professional and stay on the court to help his teammates. Back in February 2017, he was fined $25k for an inappropriate gesture and language during a Kings win against the Warriors.

Two days later during a defeat by the Chicago Bulls, he picked up his 16th technical foul. This was the earliest any player had reached that restriction in a season and 16 technical fouls result in an automatic one-game suspension and for every two consequently received.

All throughout his career, Cousins has had run-ins with Kings management, referees and the league resulting in multiple fines and suspensions. He has shown his ability to score and rebound well but is just as likely to hurt his team with a damaging attitude.