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Toronto Raptors: 4 players Toronto can add post-deadline

By Ben Fisher

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 31: Norman Powell #24 of the Toronto Raptors takes a shot past Andre Drummond #0 of the Detroit Pistons during the second half at Little Caesars Arena on January 31, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. Toronto won the game 105-92.NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 31: Norman Powell #24 of the Toronto Raptors takes a shot past Andre Drummond #0 of the Detroit Pistons during the second half at Little Caesars Arena on January 31, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. Toronto won the game 105-92.NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /
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Like him or not, DeMarcus Cousins is at least worthy of some consideration. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
Like him or not, DeMarcus Cousins is at least worthy of some consideration. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

No. 1: DeMarcus Cousins

Look, I know all the reasons why Raptors fans are so quick to rebuke any thoughts of DeMarcus Cousins joining the team. He’s an injury risk, defensive liability, declining player and potential headache for Nurse, all rolled into one. Still, what’s the risk with signing him?

Toronto isn’t exactly enjoying a lofty position in the East right now, so any scenario wherein Boogie shows up and fails to produce doesn’t exactly alter the short- or long-term outlook. More optimistically, if they can land a healthy and motivated Cousins eager to prove himself, he has the potential to be a major difference-maker down the stretch.

Could DeMarcus Cousins turn himself around with the Raptors?

Even in 25 largely forgettable games with the Houston Rockets earlier this season, the 30-year-old managed six double-doubles (including a monster 28-point, 17-rebound showing against Dallas), which happens to be five more than Aron Baynes has managed in 41 games.

We don’t even know if Cousins has stayed in shape in anticipation of a return this season, so there are certainly hurdles. But given the often scrap heap nature of the buyout market, the four-time All-Star offers a slight – however unlikely – chance at landing an under-the-radar game changer.

Next. Norman Powell's Top 5 moments as a Raptor. dark