On nights in which the team’s All-Star big man records numbers like he did on Monday in Oklahoma City (33 points and 19 rebounds), it is easy to see how he could be quickly jumping up the ranks of NBA all-time statistics.
The big night came with historical implications, not only because it was the first time a Kings team had won in OKC, but also because of the rare company it allowed Boogie to join.
In six seasons in the NBA, DeMarcus Cousins eclipsed 7,000 points, 4,000 rebounds, 900 assists, 500 steals & 400 blocks. The totals have only been achieved by seven other players in their first six seasons since the time steals and blocks were first recorded (1973-1974). Those seven others include Hall of Famers and All-Stars in Larry Bird, Hakeem Olajuwon, Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, David Robinson, Kevin Garnett and Shawn Marion.
“Boogie,” who received his nickname during his collegiate years at Kentucky when assistant coach Rod Strickland noted how the near seven-footer “boogied” around the court as if he was a guard, couldn’t have been more accurate.
DMC pirouettes around the lane with ease, has the ability to take his defenders off the dribble and has added a smooth three-point shot. The unique skills that No. 15 possesses truly allow him the chance to be a once-in-a-generation type of talent.
Since the 2012-2013 season, Boogie has notched 32 30-point double-doubles - the most of any player in the entire NBA (via www.basketball-reference.com).
Additionally, DeMarcus has eight 20-point, 20-rebound games in his career, four of which are 30-point, 20-rebound efforts.
He also holds the Sacramento-era record for most consecutive double-doubles with 15 during the 2013-14 season.
Currently in the midst of another career-best year, the All-Star is adding to his resume, making a strong argument for being considered the best big man in the NBA and, as evidenced by the company he just joined, one of the most versatile in years.
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