2018 NBA Free Agency: Ranking the Cleveland Cavaliers top 25 options

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – NOVEMBER 20: DeMarcus Cousins #0 of the New Orleans Pelicans shoots against Paul George #13 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half at the Smoothie King Center on November 20, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

No. 4: DeMarcus Cousins

Now, we break into the top four. These four players are on another level, a level that would force trade and force change in Cleveland. DeMarcus Cousins just finished the last season of his four-year contract extension that he signed prior to the 2013-2014 season.

This past season, Cousins was an absolute animal on the court. He averaged 25.4 points per game. If you tag that along with a career-high 12.9 rebounds and 5.4 assists, it’s clear Cousins puts up superstar-level numbers.

With Cousins, his late-season injury is a concern or at least it should be. Cousins tore his Achilles tendon, an injury that requires significant rehab, can happen again, and usually won’t allow a player to comeback as dynamic and athletic as before.

That said, will Cousins be able to sign a max? It’s reported that New Orleans is still the strong favorite to sign Cousins, but if James imminently returns to the Land, Cousins could be the superstar that tags along.