David Zalubowski/Associated Press

Center DeMarcus Cousins said Friday that he's open to re-signing with the New Orleans Pelicans in free agency this offseason.

When Marc J. Spears of The Undefeated asked if he has interest in possibly returning to New Orleans, Cousins responded: "Oh yeah, for sure. ... Would I like to go back to New Orleans? I'm very open to that. I love what we created. I love what was created after I went down. I would love to be part of it. But I'm going to do what's best for me, and I feel they'll do the same."

Cousins was also asked about his ideal free-agent situation, to which he replied: "Somewhere I'd be appreciated and a contender. A team that's ready to contend."

New Orleans reached the second round of the playoffs this season despite playing the second half of the campaign without Cousins, who suffered a torn Achilles.

While the Pels performed well without Cousins, he was among the NBA's best players statistically when healthy.

The 27-year-old averaged 25.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, 5.4 assists, 1.6 steals and 1.6 blocks per game en route to being named an All-Star for the fourth consecutive year.

Alongside Anthony Davis, Cousins was part of arguably the top frontcourt in the league.

Cousins figures to be highly sought after in free agency despite the Achilles injury, and he told Spears his goal is to be ready to play by training camp.

His production suggests he is deserving of a max contract, but based on his comments, winning may be even more important. Cousins was part of some awful teams during his six-plus seasons with the Sacramento Kings, and he finally got a taste of winning basketball this season.

New Orleans managed to win one game in its second-round playoff series with the Golden State Warriors, and if the club can re-sign Cousins in free agency, it may be on the verge of championship contention despite playing in the unforgiving Western Conference.