Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins Primed for Career Years

When you look at DeMarcus Cousins and Anthony Davis you see several things- Athleticism, speed, power, and of course, talent. Loads and loads of talent. Both players present matchup problems against pretty much everyone they are playing against, and can take over a game on a nightly basis. Davis and Cousins had big years last season, but are primed to fully breakout as stars this year.

Davis' Defense Leads All

When it comes to defense and blocking shots, look no further than Anthony Davis. Since coming into the league in 2012, the University of Kentucky product has been one of the leagues' leading shot blockers. He averaged 1.8 blocks per game (bpg) his rookie season, and then boosted it to 2.8 bpg last year (lead league). Even when he isn't able to block the shot, Davis is still able to alter many shots, causing opponents to think twice about bringing the ball into the lane.

His all-around game is growing, as his mid range jumper is vastly improving year-to-year. His handles are better than most big men, and his long arms allow him to finish quicker at the rim than his defenders.

Davis is one of the best defenders (and overall players) in the league. Source- https://blog-blogmediainc.netdna-ssl.com/upload/SportsBlogcom/34011/0979101001414897279_filepicker.jpg 

Cousins A Force Down Low

On the other end of the court, "Boogie" Cousins gives opposing centers fits. The 24-year-old big man who also played his college ball at Kentucky, uses his speed, strength and skill to maneuver past defenders and score. His jumper extends comfortably out to around 16 feet, and his finesse moves are among the best in the league (22.7 and 23.7 ppg in 2012-13 and 2013-14 respectively). Cousins can take over a game, and once he decides to, is nearly unstoppable no matter how he is played defensively.

His defense is also improving (1.7 bpg in 2013-14), and he can no longer be labeled strictly as an offensive center. Cousins has all the physical tools to dominate both ends of the floor, and is starting to put them to good, consistent use.

Cousins' growth is becoming rapid, and he will be a force in the NBA for years to come. Source- http://blacksportsonline.com/home/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Cavs-Mavs-bobcats-interested-demarcus-cousins.jpg 

Nowhere To Go But Up

Davis and Cousins are elite NBA talents, and their respective ceilings are high. However, both players will take different paths to become among the best players in the league. Davis will need to bulk up and continue to grow on the offensive game.

Meanwhile, Cousins will need to improve defensively and keep his attitude in check, as he is always among the league leaders in technical fouls. One thing is for sure- Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins have put the league on notice that they are here to stay. Now it's time to sit back and enjoy the show.

All stats are courtesy of espn.com