Nov 13, 2014; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Kosta Koufos (41) guards Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins (15) during the game at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Kosta Koufos
Kosta Koufos is another veteran player that should make a very positive impact for the Kings. After succesful stints with both the Denver Nuggets and Memphis Grizzlies, Koufos signed a 4-year, $33 million deal with the Kings this off-season. Koufos is a very solid addition, however it seems that it was a bit redundant after drafting Willie Cauley-Stein. Given George Karl’s tendency to play veterans over big men, it seems that Koufos will get minutes over the rookie big man.
Koufos holds career averages of five points, five rebounds, and nearly one block in 15 minutes per game. Koufos is likely to exceed those minutes this season and he may even earn starters minutes. If the Kings favor a more small-ball lineup then it is likely Koufos will be the primary backup to Cousins. But if the Kings go with a more typical lineup then Koufos will likely start at the center position with DeMarcus at the power forward spot.
I would expect Koufos’s production to increase in nearly every category. His familiarity with George Karl, as well as a larger role, should allow Koufos to show his true potential. Like Cauley-Stein, Koufos’s largest impact will likely be on the defensive end, as well as the hustle stats. Koufos should help the Kings defense tremendously, especially after spending significant time with the Grizzlies who are known for their terrific team defense.
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