The Dallas Mavericks fought through injuries and setbacks all season. Even so, they secured a spot in the playoffs. However, this does not mean their performance has improved. The team has now lost three games in a row. In their latest game against the Los Angeles Lakers, all eyes were on Anthony Davis. Many expected him to deliver a standout performance. However, that did not happen and he disappointed on the court. As a result, a former NBA player stepped in and delivered harsh criticism.
“Just as a basketball player for the Dallas Mavericks I’m sorry to tell you you failed the assignment last night…They’re screaming another name in here, they’ve got flags all through the m*** f****. It wasn’t an American flag, it wasn’t a Dallas, Texas flag, it was his country flag. It was your chance, your spotlight to show the Dallas Maverick fans you ain’t no bum, you’re going to bring them something, and nobody even noticed you,” stated Gilbert Arenas on ‘The Gil’s Arena podcast’.
Anthony Davis played 33 minutes and finished with 13 points, 6 assists, and 11 rebounds. He showed once again that he has not fully recovered his level after the long injury. His timing looked off, and he struggled to impact the game consistently on both ends. It was also his first game against the Lakers, since he missed the previous one due to injury.
Mavs fans were expecting much more from the player who is now their star. Instead, they witnessed their former idol score 45 points wearing the Lakers jersey. That contrast hit hard and left many questioning Davis’ current form.
Anthony Davis #3 of the Dallas Mavericks prepares to shoot a free throw during the first half against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center on March 29, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.
Was it a mistake for the Dallas Mavericks to rush Anthony Davis back from injury?
Anthony Davis’ injury came at a terrible time. He was finally adapting to his new team and playing his best basketball. Then, just as momentum built, he suffered a major setback. The injury kept him off the court for an extended stretch. Even so, his drive to prove himself and help the team pushed him to return early. He ignored the original recovery timeline and made a quicker comeback than expected.
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There is no major concern about a reinjury right now. His minutes are under strict control, and the medical team continues to monitor his progress. However, fans are still waiting for the dominant version of Davis they saw before the injury. That will not happen immediately. He needs time on the floor to get back to full strength. Only then can he return to peak form next season.
Still, fans pressure could influence his future with the franchise. If results continue to disappoint, the team might rethink its long-term direction. That shift could affect Davis’ place in the project. For now, he needs the fans to stay patient. If they give him time, he will likely return to form next NBA season. What they should not expect is for him to dominate in this postseason. His recent performances show he is still not at that level.
SurveyDo you believe Anthony Davis would have changed the course of the season if he had not been injured in his debut?
Do you believe Anthony Davis would have changed the course of the season if he had not been injured in his debut?
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