SUMMARY
- Anthony Davis has been playing at an elite level this season.
- AD's defensive impact is essential for the Lakers' championship aspirations.
How big a role does Anthony Davis play in the potential success of the Los Angeles Lakers this season? As NBA fans should be aware, Davis joined the Lakers after the 2018-2019 season. He helped the team win an NBA championship in his first year playing alongside LeBron James.
Although the Lakers have not seen similar success over the past few years, there is no denying that they are still considered legitimate contenders due to the experience and talent that LeBron and AD possess. While a debate on which player is better could be made, it is clear that the Lakers’ ceiling is based on how Anthony Davis performs. With that being said, a closer look is certainly required.
Anthony Davis is undoubtedly the best defender on the Los Angeles Lakers
An argument could be made that Anthony Davis is one of the most talented players in the league. Despite towering over most other competitors at 6’10 and playing the center position, AD has honed his skills over the years and has a deep arsenal of moves. From his postgame to his jumper, Davis is the complete package.
That leads fans to conclude that he is an anchor for the Lakers. After all, Davis was also one of the contenders to win the DPOY award this season. Although there are other stars on the Lakers such as Jarred Vanderbilt and Rui Hachimura who play better perimeter defense, there is no avoiding the fact that AD is the best defender on his team.
AD’s absence leaves the Lakers with no experienced rim protector and shot blocker
Whenever Anthony Davis does not play, the Los Angeles Lakers appear to be a very different team. After all, they have no real and experienced rim protector or shot blocker. Since half the game is played on the defensive end, Davis does a lot more for his team that the traditional statistics do not clearly reveal.