The Los Angeles Lakers, the 17-time NBA champions, have undergone significant changes in the offseason. Recently, they wrapped up their roster for the 2023-24 season by landing Christian Wood. This, in combination with prior acquisitions like Jaxson Hayes, Taurean Prince, and Cam Reddish, while also retaining Rui Hachimura, solidifies their impressive front-court depth. However, it’s not just these acquisitions creating a buzz, but Anthony Davis’ wish to shift his position on the court.
Davis, the eight-time All-Star, recently expressed his desire to the Lakers’ coaching staff to spend more time as a power forward, a change from the center position where he played almost entirely last season. ESPN’s Dave McMenamin shared that Davis seems keen on resuming to his usual position, which may cause the coaching staff to rethink their game plans.
Anthony Davis made it clear to the organization he wanted to have more support at center so he wouldn’t have to play so much 5 during the regular season.
Davis was slotted at center in 99% of his minutes last season, according to Cleaning the Glass data.
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— The Laker Files (@LakerFiles) September 7, 2023
However, according to NBA writer Mark Medina, while Davis’ desire to move is evident, the full shift might not be fully accommodated. Medina anticipates that Davis will likely see more action as a power forward only when his teammate, 19-time NBA All-Star LeBron James, isn’t on the floor. The potential move is expected to impact the rest of the rotation, mainly where James would position himself.
What could be LeBron James’ position next season?
LeBron James, the four-time champion, has played alongside several NBA greats. From Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love to legends like Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade, his adaptability has been remarkable. However, the partnership with Davis, which many believe is LeBron’s best teammate alliance to date.
Medina outlines a scenario which, if Davis avoids the center position, could see James transition to the small forward role. Given LeBron’s versatility, he can technically play any position. However, this defensive shift might require him to guard top wing players, typically the highest scorers on opposing teams. Medina voices concerns about this affecting LeBron’s usage rate.
The solution? A “two-big” lineup, as suggested by Medina. It would involve creative rotations that leverage the team’s newly-acquired depth, ensuring Davis gets his minutes as a power forward without overburdening LeBron.
Given the chemistry between Davis and James, along with the Lakers’ new roster additions, the upcoming season seems promising. Head coach Darvin Ham approach will undoubtedly be in the spotlight as fans anticipate another championship-contending year.