DeMarcus Cousins Says Pelicans Must Find Consistency, Accept Being 'Boring' Team

DeMarcus Cousins knows the up-and-down play from the New Orleans Pelicans needs to change for the squad to reach the playoffs.

When asked about what is holding the team back this year, the center had an easy answer.

"Consistency," Cousins said, per William Guillory of the Times-Picayune. "We might play the right way three games, then play the wrong way four games. Just finding that consistency, being OK with being a boring team that plays the right way every night. I think it's just consistency. That's our biggest struggle."

The Pelicans are 18-18 and No. 8 in the Western Conference.

New Orleans hasn't had more than a three-game winning streak all season and is coming off back-to-back home losses to the Knicks and Mavericks. Although the .500 record would be an improvement over its 34-48 mark last season, it might take more to secure a playoff berth.

The Portland Trail Blazers got into the postseason last year at 41-41, but there are seemingly more teams in the hunt now.

Cousins is apparently trying to lead by example during an impressive individual season. The three-time All-Star is averaging 26.2 points, 12.5 rebounds and a career-high 5.2 assists per game.

His consistency has also been impressive, as he's scored at least 20 points in 11 of the last 12 games, with nine double-doubles in this stretch. He had a combined 61 points and 39 rebounds in the two recent losses to inferior opponents.

The Pelicans have been losing close games lately, but more consistency from the entire roster on both ends of the court could have them surging up the standings.