Home/NBA

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Los Angeles Lakers bounced back from their loss in game 1 to defeat the Phoenix Suns in the second game of the playoff series. Anthony Davis stepped up to provide a resounding victory for the Lakers.

While Davis had been struggling with injuries this season, but his performance in this game was stupendous. In fact, Davis matched an existing record of the ‘Mamba’ Kobe Bryant with his display in the match.

Anthony Davis shares a record with Kobe Bryant

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Even though Davis had a poor outing in the first match, the gulf in quality was clear with his performance today. He became the first Laker since Kobe to score 30 plus points, and attempt 2o plus free throws in their victory against the Suns.

He scored 34 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists to wrap up an incredible performance. In addition, he had 3 blocks and shot 18 free throws from 21 attempts in the game. With a plus-minus rating of +6, the Brow dominated the game on the court.

The Lakers also used their size advantage to grab 46 rebounds while taking a step forward in the series. Meanwhile, Phoenix will visit the Staples Center on Friday as the Lakers try to take a 2-1 advantage. Time will tell whether AD can carry the Lakers forward and prove to be the difference.

DIVE DEEPER- Will Julius Randle Play Tonight? New York Knicks vs Atlanta Hawks Game 2: Prediction, Injuries, & Lineups

Kobe Bryant spotted AD to continue the Lakers legacy

Back before the Lakers signed Anthony Davis, Kobe Bryant had told the organization to snap him up to support LeBron James. The current general manager of the Lakers, Rob Pelinka, revealed the phone call he had with Kobe regarding AD.

“Hey, you know I don’t give you GM advice, But if you ever get a chance to get this guy, he is the avatar of what you want. His level of footwork, his dexterity, his mastery of the details of the game. Guys like this are generational players,” said Kobe.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

It is quite rare to see a fleet-footed big man like Davis in the NBA. His mid-range and off-the-dribble shots remain the key on the floor. With LeBron James still trying to find his fitness, AD will need to put in good numbers consistently for the franchise to advance.

While Chris Paul had a rare off day for Phoenix, the Lakers took that advantage as the series is taking its shape to be an exciting matchup for the fans.

USA Today via Reuters

As the next two games are in Los Angeles, the Suns have to improve their defense in order to win against the Lakers. As they are trying to win a second consecutive championship, Davis and LeBron will be the difference. Will the Lakers advance to the next round?

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

DIVE DEEPER- ‘Bad MF’: NBA Players React to Luka Doncic and Mavericks Winning Game 2 Against LA Clippers