New Orleans Pelicans’ All-Star center DeMarcus Cousins is working hard to recover from torn left Achilles injury he suffered in January and remains optimistic about his return to the basketball court. Although the recovery time from such an injury is usually 10 to 12 months, Cousins thinks he might be ready when training camps open in September.
“I’m looking forward to starting the season,” – Cousins told The Undefeated. “That’s my own personal goal, so we’ll see what happens. That’s what I’m working on. The doctors haven’t really given me an answer because of the time I injured myself and the amount of time that I have. It’s basically open field because I have so much time. But for me, I’m shooting to be ready for training camp.”
The injury couldn’t come at a worse time for Cousins then when it did. He was in the middle of an MVP-worthy season with the Pelicans and averaged 25.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, 5.4 assists, 1.6 steals and 1.6 blocks per game. The averages for rebounds, assists, and steals were all career-highs for Cousins.
Another issue for DeMarcus Cousins is the fact that he will be a free agent this summer. He was on track to receive a max contract from the Pelicans and probably most teams in the NBA before the injury, but his potential suitors might now be cautious about signing him due to his injury. Big men in basketball tend to recover slower from torn Achilles injuries and mostly don’t get back to their previous form.
Cousins, on the other hand, isn’t concerned that the teams might hold the injury against him.
“Honestly, I’m not concerned.” – he said. “I know my mindset. I know how hard I work at my craft. I think I’ll be back in no time.”
