The Kings big man might have just gotten a big boost to his national team hopes.
In a surprising turn of events, Kevin Durant today withdrew from Team USA, citing "physical and mental exhaustion". This cuts the remaining roster down to 15 and also removes the best player from the entire tournament. There's no way to spin this other than a big blow for Team USA's World Cup chances, even if they're still probably considered the favorites.
For DeMarcus Cousins, this is a blow in that he won't be able to be around Kevin Durant if he makes the team. One of the big reasons why I wanted to see him make the team was so that he could be around guys like Durant. It's not as if he can't learn things from the other people on the roster, but Durant is one of those superstars that you have to respect no matter what, and having him and Cousins training and playing together for the next month and a half would have been a great learning experience for Cousins.
On the flip side, Durant's withdrawal from the team likely boosts Cousins' chances to make the team dramatically. Before the withdrawal, the main thing Team USA was seemingly looking for from their big men was defense. With Durant, Harden and Curry (all locks to make the team), there was already a bunch of scoring. Now though, Durant's absence leaves a big hole and that's where Cousins' value as a supremely talented offensive player becomes more highlighted. You could make the case that of the 15 players left on the roster, Cousins is the 3rd best scorer, behind Harden and Curry, and he's already the best rebounder.
With Durant gone, Cousins might not just make the team, but also be a much more prominent piece than he would have been with Durant on the team. It will still be a tremendous achievement and experience for him if he succeeds in making the final roster, and as of right now, it seems like Team USA could use all the talent they can get.