Clippers reportedly intend to sign DeMarcus Cousins

Former Houston Rockets center DeMarcus Cousins (15) looks to pass the ball during the second half against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center. Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Clippers reportedly intend to sign veteran center DeMarcus Cousins

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 3/31/21

The Houston Rockets released DeMarcus Cousins in February. After a little over one month out of the NBA, the veteran center is on the verge of signing a new deal.

According to The Athletic's Shams Charania, the Clippers intend to sign Cousins pending clearance of NBA health and safety protocols. He has already begun testing protocols to join the team, Charania adds.

Sources: Cousins is in LA and is starting testing protocols to join the Clippers. He is former teammates of Rajon Rondo (New Orleans, Sacramento)/Patrick Patterson (Kentucky, Sacramento), played with Kawhi Leonard in past All-Star games, and adds depth to Clippers’ frontcourt. https://t.co/8GVp2HAS8E
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 31, 2021

Cousins signed a one-year, $2.3 million deal with the Rockets during the offseason. He was averaging 9.6 points and 7.6 rebounds this season playing in a reserve role, so Houston didn't think having him on board was worth it any longer.

The 30-year-old will add some nice depth to L.A.'s frontcourt behind Serge Ibaka, who is dealing with an injury, and Ivica Zubac.

The Clippers are looking to add depth as they try to compete with the Los Angeles Lakers and Utah Jazz in the Western Conference. L.A.'s interest in Cousins likely escalated after blowing a lead to the Orlando Magic on Tuesday.

More must-reads: