DeMarcus Cousins Repeats Same Line When Asked About Facing Kings

The New Orleans Pelicans will play the Sacramento Kings on Friday night, marking DeMarcus Cousins' first game against his old team since getting dealt during the All-Star break. Even with both teams well below .500, the matchup presents a juicy narrative that Cousins refused to feed.

Reporters tried to coax an interesting sound bite out of the boisterous big man, but he simply smiled and repeatedly said it's "another chance to come out, play hard and get a win." He also feigned surprise when informed of which team awaits.

When asked about his time in Sacramento, Cousins dropped the bit and offered a more candid response.

"I enjoyed my time there. I developed a lot of relationships," Cousins said. "It will be good to see the guys again. I haven't seen them since before the break, so it's a good chance to see those guys, laugh a little bit. But seriously, it's another chance to just come out and get better."

Cousins has averaged 22.9 points and 12.0 rebounds with the Pelicans, but they have lost eight of the 14 games he's played. With their playoff chances slim, the season's final days represent chances for Cousins to come out, play hard, develop some rapport with Anthony Davis and maybe win some games.

[ESPN's Justin Verrier, h/t Deadspin's Patrick Redford]