“He Wants to Play Through His Injuries”: Taking a Page Out of LeBron James’ Book, 6’11 Lakers Star’s Reputation is Faulted, Claims 2x NBA Champion

Criticism is a part of being a professional athlete. Having to satisfy thousands of people can make you unpopular among few, especially due to the biases of fans. Having already identified their favorites, fans are quick in finding scapegoats that usually take the brunt of it all. These are usually players that are under performing, injured or haven’t seen much game time.

While the practice of bias is quite unfair anyway, it is when one is maligned by fans that a player suffers the most. Great players can often be found in that bracket, including a current teammate of LeBron James.

The fault in AD’s stars hurts his reputation

When speaking of players that fans are overly critical of, Anthony Davis is one name that comes to mind. During an episode of The Old Man & the Three, host JJ Redick spoke about the center at length with his guest, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. Redick revealed that he felt AD was the “most maligned great player ever”.

A former teammate of Davis, KCP was questioned by JJ on what he felt about AD’s career so far. Putting forth his question Redick asked, “Do you think the way he is sort of covered and how people view his career has been fair?” to which the 2-time NBA champion responded, “No.”

Going on to give his reasons, he explained, “It is unfair for him because AD is a great player. As far as like defensively and offensively, he has an all-round game.”

An 8-time all-star during his career, AD has done a lot compared to most centers in the league. While he has been unfortunate with his injuries the big man deserves more credit than he currently receives.

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Injuries are a major reason why AD doesn’t get the respect he deserves

JJ was the first to point out that injuries were a major reason behind AD being maligned. Putting it into context he said, “Motherf****’s 6’11, he is running around on a basketball court, like, he is going to get hurt eventually.”

Concurring to the point made by JJ, KCP reiterated Davis’ enthusiasm to play through it all. Speaking about AD’s injuries he said, “He wants to play through his injuries but it’s the organization that holds back on it you know?” Taking out a page from LeBron James’ book KCP also added, “For me, I have learnt a lot just by being around them guys [LeBron and AD], like taking your time and not rushing when you are injured.”

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With the importance of not pushing though injuries now being a well-known fact, are fans too critical of AD? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!