In the NBA, Media Day is usually a moment for players and coaches to express themselves, establish expectations, and, on occasion, make daring remarks. One of the year’s most memorable moments came from none other than LeBron James. It happened when he announced that Anthony Davis was the face of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Some may see this as a natural passing of the torch. While on the other hand Shannon Sharpe, LeBron’s biggest admirer and sports broadcaster, has a different take.

Shannon Sharpe gives his take on Davis being the face of the Lakers

Sharpe questioned LeBron’s statement in an interview with Chad OchoCinco on Club Shay Shay. He drew an interesting parallel between the Lakers’ dynamic and the NFL. Sharpe, renowned for his fervent support of LeBron James, stated his opposition to Anthony Davis being named the Lakers’ face, especially because LeBron remains the NBA’s face.

Sharpe’s analogy was clear and striking. He said, “Is AD the face of the Lakers? Hey, the difference is AD is the face of the team, LeBron is the face of the NBA. It’s like Jerry Jones is the face of the Cowboys, Patrick Mahomes is the face of the NFL! That’s a whole different thing. So, I get what LeBron is trying to do. LeBron for the longest has said, “AD I need you to carry this thing now…Bro I’m in year 19, I’m in year 20, now I’m in year 21! You’re supposed to be in your prime.

Further adding, “You’re supposed to take this thing and run! If AD were to take this thing and run with it, like I think he can, LeBron can easily get another two years”. Sharpe acknowledged that LeBron James has been patiently waiting for Anthony Davis to take over the Lakers for the past two seasons. He stressed that LeBron is nearing the end of his historic career, having entered his 21st season and that he can no longer carry a club fully on his own.

What must Anthony Davis do according to Sharpe?

Shannon Sharpe’s viewpoint is based on the belief that, while Anthony Davis is undeniably a brilliant player, he has yet to exhibit consistency and leadership. Which is necessary to be deemed an all-time great, particularly in the context of Lakers’ history. In simple terms, Sharpe contends that Davis cannot be regarded seriously as a Laker great unless he accepts more responsibility and pressure. Only then will he be able to relieve LeBron of a portion of the strain.

Furthermore, Sharpe feels that Anthony Davis has the ability to not only become the Lakers’ face but also grow past LeBron James’ NBA career. If Davis genuinely takes the lead, he may be able to compete at a high level for another couple of years, adding to his already legendary career.

Read More: After His $186 Million Extension Deal With the Lakers, 7x NBA Champion Puts a Wager on Anthony Davis

While LeBron’s comments on Anthony Davis ignited debate and conversation, Shannon Sharpe’s NFL parallel offers a unique view of the relationships between these two basketball giants. It serves as a reminder that in the world of sports, analogies, and ideals are often as deep and intricate as the games themselves.

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