Are the Los Angeles Lakers right in preferring Hassan Whiteside over DeMarcus Cousins?
Yes.
I really like DeMarcus Cousins and think that he would also be a really good addition to the Los Angeles Lakers. However, if Rob Pelinka believes that Whiteside will truly be available then it would be best to wait and pursue him.
Cousins’ ability to space the floor is intriguing and definitely would help add something while Anthony Davis is out but it would not translate as well as Whiteside would once AD returns. In fact, it might feel a bit redundant with Davis, Cousins and Montrezl Harrell.
The Lakers need that traditional big-bodied center that can play 15 minutes a night and be tasked with rebounding and shot-blocking. That is all they really need out of this addition and if they truly want more three-point shooting they should pursue it either via a wing or a guard.
Whiteside simply fits better on this team and while the ceiling is probably higher with Cousins, they are only getting either player for half a season and the playoffs. The familiarity factor is fun with Cousins, but it is not like the Lakers would be asking Whiteside to do much that would take a significant time to adjust.
Plus, there is always the risk of injury for Cousins. It feels a bit harsh but it is absolutely true. How can the Lakers fully trust someone who has suffered multiple bad leg injuries to withstand a push to the NBA Finals?
The last thing you want from a buyout signing is an injury, which tips the balance in Whiteside’s favor even further.