It doesn’t really matter how old LeBron James is, he is bound to startle the NBA community. At 39, he has shown himself to be capable of still being the protagonist for the Lakers. However, a primal franchise icon, Shaq believes it’s time for him to relinquish control. The Big Diesel wants the baton to be passed on to Anthony Davis, the professed future of the franchise. Even JJ Redick spoke about igniting the change.

“One of the things I brought up with him is just the idea of him as a hub,” the first-time head coach said during his press conference. Reflecting on AD’s dominance on either side of the floor, it seems natural for an aging yet capable James to defer to his trusted partner. But it’s not that easy when considering how Davis has faired with an increased workload. Brian Kamenetzky thinks increasing his volume isn’t the answer.

“You know better schemes and like that will help. But when Shaq puts it out there like that it’s almost like he’s talking about a 26-year-old big with no history of injury. As if the Lakers aren’t just as interested and invested and needing to keep Anthony Davis fresh as they are LeBron. I am not saying the two guys have equal loads on both sides of the floor because they don’t… But like I don’t want to do stuff that loads up extra on AD. Like I don’t want that to be a strategy the Lakers have because overall volume is not what I want to add to his play. Style, different play, sure but like volume no. No thank you,” he said on the Locked on Lakers podcast with his brother.

Anthony Davis’ stint with the Lakers is often alluded to his regular health concerns. In the three seasons since winning the championship, AD missed a minimum of 26 games. In two of those seasons, he didn’t play over 40 games. When pit with the onus of taking on more workload, his health has often crumbled. That’s among the reasons LeBron James never stepped down from his mainstay role.

But from last season it appears that Davis is ready to assume bigger responsibilities. And he is also coming with a demanding mindset.

The new coach brings a bright change to Anthony Davis

After three horror seasons characterized by frustrating injuries, Anthony Davis set his mind to be healthy. Before the beginning of the last season, he relayed his objective to play all 82 games for the Purple and Gold. The thunderous rim protector honored his words, only missing six games throughout the season.

Likewise, with him on the floor, the Lakers had some stability. He spared no effort and contributed to every aspect of the game. Defensively he blocked shots and offensively he made himself available while playing behind the Akron Hammer. The newfound sustainability seems to have recharged his spirits, as he prepares to officially become the frontal force for the Lakers.

“The goal at the end of the day is still to win championships. You can’t skip steps. The first step is we’re going to hold guys accountable. We’re going to show up to work and if something goes wrong, we’re gonna hold guys accountable, and then from there, we’ll figure it out,” he told The Athletic.

Not only did it have a resounding tone, but Davis seemed to embrace his new post. He is moving toward the direction of being a veteran locker room leader empowering his forces by example. As the reputation of the Lakers goes, his mentality is akin to the 17 banners that hang atop the Crypto.com arena.

Do you think Davis will assume control and let James play second fiddle this season? Let us know what you think in the comments below.