If the Lakers were reluctant to use their 2027 and 2029 first-round draft picks in a trade to give 37-year-old LeBron James a playoff shot this year, Davis’ recent play could be changing the conver…
Throughout the restless weeks when a portion of the fan base was openly wondering if the Lakers’ best option was to trade Anthony Davis, one critical concept eluded them.The 29-year-old has spent the last four games reminding the basketball world of his ceiling – a double-double machine who can change the game on both ends of the court. Without LeBron James at his side, Davis has averaged 35.5 points, 18.3 rebounds, 2.3 steals and 2.5 blocked shots while leading the Lakers to a 3-1 record.
Unlike some of the Lakers’ early losses, that sentiment wasn’t entirely out of place. The Lakers looked reasonably competitive armed with the best version of Davis – and in playing his best basketball, Davis might start shifting discussions of what the franchise needs to do next. But as great as James has been, he’s turning 38 next month, and he’s admitted his production, especially his efficiency, has been below his standard. More and more, Davis is the straw stirring the drink, and the past few weeks have offered a glimpse of what a Davis-centric team looks like.
Since Davis has moved to nearly a full-time center, he’s shifted his shot selection: He’s only taken three 3-point attempts in his last 77 shots. That has led to both a higher shot efficiency and a lot of time at the free-throw line . Rather than trying to force Davis into a power forward role where he can’t space the floor because of his 3-point shooting, the Lakers have called upon him to play like the big man he’s often tried to avoid being.
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