SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) – Although still soul searching to find the right mental perspective on the court, DeMarcus Cousins continues to deliver big numbers for the Sacramento Kings.
Cousins had 28 points, 14 rebounds and seven assists for the Kings, who beat the New Orleans Pelicans 105-99 on Sunday night for their third straight victory.
The temperamental Cousins received a questionable technical late in the first quarter, his NBA-leading 17th of the season. One more technical and he will serve his second one-game suspension. Cousins says he’s trying to not be so demonstrative when calls go against him, but acknowledged that it’s a struggle.
“I can’t be myself. Me playing the way I play is what makes me the player I am,” Cousins said. “I’m trying to find a way to do what these guys are asking me to do. Obviously what I’ve been doing is not acceptable. It’s not easy, but I’m trying to find a way.”
Cousins did just that in the fourth quarter while helping the Kings maintain the lead throughout. He made his only field-goal attempt, but hit all six free throws, including four in the final 1:46 when the Pelicans were trying to cut into the margin.