Anthony Davis just had one hell of a night. The Lakers headed into tonight’s Hornets clash aiming to extend their three-game winning streak. And they took charge right from tip-off, thanks to The Brow’s dominant performance. Yes, AD single-handedly outscored the entire Hornets roster in the game and finished with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Moreover, he maintained that form throughout the game to ensure the win. Sure enough, LeBron James and JJ Redick were left in awe of the star forward and shared a similar sentiment.

Addressing Davis’ performance, LBJ said post-game, “He carried us tonight… He had it all going.” He also deemed his teammate the “best” player on the Lakers roster. Well, he might be correct in his assessment because although LeBron gets the spotlight, AD has clearly been a better player, averaging 25.9 points and nearly 11.9 rebounds.

Even Redick agreed with James’ statement, saying, “I mean, he put in two days of work tonight… just carried us all night.” Apart from an incredible first quarter, AD finished the night with a season-high 42 points and 23 rebounds. JJ continued, “We moved him around. He played with force. I thought his hands and touch and just the pursuit of the basketball and the offensive glass, all that stuff was just awesome tonight.”

Until last season, Davis’ health was a major concern as he constantly missed games because of injury. However, the ‘injury prone’ tag has slowly faded, especially after he played a career-high 76 games last year. Even this season, he has been available for a majority of the games and is arguably playing the best basketball of his career.

If he continues to do so, the Lakers have a legitimate shot at being title contenders. But AD’s dominance doesn’t mean his recent plea should be forgotten.

Anthony Davis needs a “Big Man” but Jarred Vanderbilt’s return could provide major relief

While LeBron and JJ both said that AD “carried” the team tonight, he might not save the day every time. That’s why the Lakers need to make a trade before the deadline to get him some help. Even Davis said in an interview with Shams Charania a few days ago, “I think we need another big. I feel like I’ve always been at my best when I’ve been the 4, having a big out there.”

Yes, Davis has hinted several times he does not prefer playing as a center as the forward position comes more naturally to him. However, the Lakers’ lack of size has forced him to take on the undesired role. Although that’s working well so far, it could overexert AD and hurt them later in the season. Sure, Jarred Vanderbilt’s recent return gives them relief as he brings much-needed size and defensive prowess to the lineup.

However, Rob Pelinka should not avoid his superstar’s plea and work on acquiring a true center so that Davis can move to the power forward position. Maybe it will even improve his numbers. Nikola Vučević and Cam Johnson are some of the potential options available. Who do you think the Lakers should pursue?