All eyes are on Anthony Davis as he gets ready to play in his 11th NBA season. Los Angeles Lakers are trying to replace Russell Westbrook and hoping Davis steps up. He had trouble staying on the floor last season and many seasons prior, and he frequently appeared to be out of shape. Fans naturally panicked and pleaded with AD to improve his game. The reaction came after it was revealed this summer that he hadn’t shot a basketball in weeks.
The next season, many anticipated that Davis would overtake LeBron James as the Lakers’ top player. However, Davis hasn’t even come close. Of course, injuries have been a factor, but AD’s scoring averages over the past two seasons have been the lowest of his career. Davis’ consistency and health are crucial to the Lakers’ success, according to new coach Darvin Ham. Ham may not be too pleased with AD’s recent admission that he hasn’t shot a basketball in some time.
“I haven’t shot a basketball since probably April 5th,” Davis said.
For the aforementioned Lakers and James, who will shortly be eligible for an extension, there may be some good news. Anthony Davis’ unexpected admission in the middle of June that he hadn’t shot a basketball since early April may have actually been a good thing. By all accounts, Davis has been working out more diligently since his remarks sparked a wave of harsh criticism.
For the Lakers, it was obviously not a good sign because if they want to win a championship, they will need Davis to be at the peak of his game. Fortunately, the L.A. big man may have become significantly more motivated as a result of the same fan complaints.
Since receiving all that slack earlier this summer, Davis has reportedly been spending a lot more time in the gym. Although not on purpose, Davis’s season-opening success may be credited to Lakers supporters. He averaged 23.2 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 3.1 assists across 40 games in 2021–22.
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