Anthony Davis is one of the most elite players in the NBA. With great first-hand experience since his induction into the NBA, he has transformed into a tremendous player. He has been the best player on the court for the Los Angeles Lakers several times, despite having LeBron James on the floor. Davis possesses a unique combination of skills that sets him apart. Offensively, he is one of the few big men that can effortlessly stretch the floor. Furthermore, his guard-like pull-up enables him to launch a shot anywhere on the court.

Defensively, he can block, alter and discourage shots around the rim effectively and excel in one-on-one defense against players at various positions. In 2021, the NBA 75th Anniversary Team inducted the 2020 NBA champion in its all-time list.

A former NBA champ praises Anthony Davis

On a recent episode of the podcast All The Smoke, Davis’ teammate Austin Reaves sat with the hosts Stephen Jackson and Matt Barnes. They were candidly talking about Austin’s path to the NBA, his evolution in the Lakers, and the recent season. When the conversation turned towards Davis, Reaves said, “I don?t think he gets enough credit for what he does for us as guards.” Reaves explained how having Anthony as rim-protector instills a lot of confidence in guards.

Agreeing with Reaves, Matt Barnes, who won a championship with the Golden State Warriors in 2017, said, “I don’t think he gets enough credit on the defensive end either.” He added, “He can switch out and maintain a guard.”

Matt then pointed out the Lakers’ recent playoff series where Davis guarded Steph Curry, “To stay in front of Steph, I don’t five a fu** how old Steph is, i(t’)s not easy for him to get lost in the move, and still recovering to either change a shot or block a shot at his size is absolutely incredible.”

Anthony Davis made a powerful statement in the recent playoffs with his defensive prowess. Fully recovered and performing at his peak, Davis dominated as a defensive force. In his 12 playoff games, Anthony Davis defended an average of 20.9 shot attempts per game, holding his opponents to a 39.4% success rate from the field.

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Most importantly, he was seen guarding more quicker and craftier players like Ja Morant and Stephen Curry.

Anthony Davis in the 2022-23 NBA season

In the 2022-23 season, Davis showcased his offensive prowess, averaging 25.9 points, 12.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.1 steals and 2.0 blocks per game, with a shooting percentage of 56.3%. He continued to impress during the playoffs, averaging 22.6 PPG, 14.1 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.4 SPG and 3.1 BPG on 52.0% shooting over 16 games.

When Davis gets going, he solidifies himself as one of the NBA’s premier two-way players. He also adds a lot of respect to the Lakers’ squad on the defensive end. The Lakers struggled in the 26 games without him last season, recording only a 12-14 record.

The biggest flaw with Anthony Davis has been his injuries and availability with the Lakers. Over the four years, he has been able to suit for only 194 season games, including the 56 games last season. In the 2023-24 season, the Lakers are looking to assist?LeBron?to his 5th championship ring.

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Will Anthony Davis stand out as the greatest supporting role LeBron James has ever had and enable them for a genuine run at the chip? Share your thoughts in the comments below!