There are a lot of negative takes about Anthony Davis on a consistent basis. But at least one NBA legend is rooting for him. While fans are in shambles over the disappointing loss in the recent game against the Miami Heat, James Worthy highlighted the grit AD displayed. He visibly struggled on the court today and is now dealing with undue scrutiny. However, this Team USA titan is not ready to discount Davis yet.

While everyone is questioning whether Davis has the tenacity to continue this season, the fellow Los Angeles Lakers icon is giving him the benefit of the doubt. All because of the display AD put on the court today.

James Worthy pins his hopes on AD

The Lakers came close but still couldn’t edge out the Miami Heat on Monday night. But the 107-108 loss was not the only thing on fans’ minds. Anthony Davis was hampered by hip spasms during the game that were noticeable. Despite the pain, he left the court twice and returned to continue.

According to James Worthy, that deserved praise. Speaking to Robert Horry during the game on Spectrum SportsNet, he said, “He at least came back and he tried,” Worthy said. He acknowledged that everyone wants to see the old AD. However, he believes that his determination to keep playing is respect worthy.

“That’s one thing about AD we don’t talk, he will get it in balance and get back,” the 3x champion said. “And sometimes we need putbacks and keepers in the game.”

Davis first had to get it in balance after Heat’s Jaime Jaquez rattled him in the second quarter. After powering through for several minutes before subbing out with about two minutes left for halftime, he started the third quarter only for the coach to call a timeout and sub Davis out with 10 minutes left.

He came back from the locker room but couldn’t help the team catch up with the Heat. He appeared to have been jolted by his injury because he let out an audible curse before the third quarter ended.

WATCH THIS STORY | Months After Pink Bikini Showcase, Shaquille O’Neal Joins Social Media Tirade Against ‘Red Thong Guy’ on NFL Game Sideline

AD was averaging a career-high 38.8 minutes in the season ahead of the game, the second-highest in the league. Despite his back troubles, he finished with 9 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists in a total of 25 minutes. That’s all part of the reason why Worthy is rooting for him.

James Worthy’s plans for AD

James Worthy’s best run was with the Purple & Gold and that’s why the team has a special meaning to him. He’s been secure about the Lakers ever since LeBron James was suiting up for it. But with King James edging towards the sunset of his playing career, the veteran is projecting Anthony Davis to carry the torch.

Several analysts and fans are of similar opinion. The Silent Assassin was a lot louder about his declaration. “It’s AD’s team,” he said bluntly.

READ MORE: James Worthy Reveals Crucial Nuggets Quality That Not Even LeBron James Possesses – EssentiallySports

He reiterated that AD has put up good numbers even through injuries. His stats are also the reason why other Lakers legends like Robert Horry and Shaquille O’Neal are rooting for him. Do you agree with these Lakers greats on AD’s future?