Something definitely going on between Mayo and Cousins. Cousins was seen touching Mayos sack and now Mayos has been seen touching Cousins bum (right at the start of the clip). NBA is going soft indeed.
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Looking at the replay a couple more times, i could see how it could be un intentional, he realized the ball got stolen so maybe he was try to burst back on D turning around like that and accidentally hitting carter. You never know though unless you were inside cousins head at the moment, either way even if it was intention, it was just a little frustration move, you can tell immediately he was like "oh ****" and grabbed carter and in the interview he seems honest, and even if he's not being honest, obviously very regretful. Carter didn't die or anything i don't think it was that big of a deal, its not like he screamed at carter, got in his face, or threw a bunch and honestly i do see how it could of been a accident.
I agree, flagrant 1 maybe, but given his history can't say I blame the refs for coming down harder. I kinda feel for him though...it's like he's conditioned behaviorally to make boneheaded school yard plays. Seems like he cognitively understands whats expected but is also frustrated he can't seem to change his actions in the heat of the game. That's promising if true since he's looking more inward than outward. Then again he's also pushing responsibilty out on the refs for prejudging him. But who can blame them....
It looked a lot worse in live speed like a very hard and quick jab to face out of frustration. Aren't all intentional hits to the face flagrant 2?
The dude has a target on his back right now, and maybe it's deserved, but if he can mature a little, he will still be a foundational player. Remember when Sheed couldn't grimace without drawing a technical or Rodman, for crying out loud? Both had great careers in spite of their childish on court behaviour.
But both Sheed and Rodman weren't asked to be the second or third option for their teams. They were basically there to do dirty work and not get in the way.
Rasheed Wallace was easily the 3rd option on the Pistons and Blazers and many times he was #1 and #2. Honestly, Cousins reminds more of Sheed than any other player, the poor shot selection and all. The biggest problem Cousins has, even more than his attitude, is his defense. Teams will put up with a psycho if they are irreplaceable difference makers on the court. The problem is Cousins is no Sheed or Artest defensively. While he does have amazing talent, there are too many times where he is a net negative on the court. But, on the right team, with the right leadership, he could be special....even a major cog on a championship team.
