The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> haven’t found much success since <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> arrived. If you put every single year in a vacuum, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> championship in 2020 looks more like an outlier.



Of course, winning a ring in five years should hardly be considered a failure. Then again, some fans simply refuse to take that championship seriously because of the context and the conditions.



Even before the league resumed activities during the pandemic, some fans and analysts debated whether that championship had an asterisk next to it. Needless to say, things only got worse once James and Anthony Davis won the whole thing.



<h2>Anthony Davis Says Lakers Would’ve Won The Title In 2020 Anyway</h2>



That’s why, making an appearance on D’Angelo Russell’s podcast, Davis wanted to set the record straight, making fun of those who discredit their title and claiming they would’ve won anyway:



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/28093210/Anthony-Davis-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Anthony Davis" class="wp-image-77151" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Anthony Davis</figcaption></figure>



“People talk about ‘aw the Lakers championship. Oh, it wasn’t real, the bubble’ But people tend to forget we were the number one team in the league that year. We had already won 12 straight. We weren’t losing games; we were 21-3 or something like that. We were running through the league. We were gonna win anyway,” Davis said.



That’s valid. That Lakers team was rolling on defense, and LeBron James was four years younger, so he still had another gear in him. The biggest question is perhaps if Davis would’ve been able to stay healthy under regular circumstances.



Also, with the Lakers struggling to keep that level of play since the bubble, their haters went out of their way to try and claim that they would’ve never gotten the job done if it wasn’t for the bubble.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-makes-telling-comment-about-lakers-roster-ahead-of-the-trade-deadline-20240207-BUS-102905.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20240207_BUS_102905_LeBron-James-Lakers.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With the Los Angeles Lakers reportedly looking to make some moves before the trade deadline, LeBron James shared his thoughts on his teammates.
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 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/theres-growing-tension-between-lebron-james-and-the-lakers-20240205-BUS-102435.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20240205_BUS_102435_LeBron-James-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="LeBron James continues to push pressure on the Los Angeles Lakers&apos; front office, but they&apos;re not caving in, according to NBA insider Brian Windhorst.
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 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/los-angeles-lakers-trade-for-dejounte-murray-faces-key-obstacle-20240129-BUS-100909.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20240129_BUS_100909_Dejounte-Murray-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Even though the Los Angeles Lakers have been tied to a trade for Dejounte Murray, it seems like trade between them and the Atlanta Hawks have stalled.
" title="Los Angeles Lakers&apos; trade for Dejounte Murray faces key obstacle" publication_id="BUS#20240129#BUS#100909"></div>


Whatever the case, no one can take anything away from the Lakers. The field was level; everybody had the same opportunities to win the whole thing, and they were the best team by a significant margin.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="65c4e093c04ef6a96d55b453" data-title="Is there an asterisk next to the bubble ring?" data-options="2"></div>

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Anthony Davis fires back at Lakers doubters over 'bubble ring'

Anthony Davis takes a huge shot at Lakers' haters over 'bubble' ring

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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers </a>have been up and down this campaign, and if they continue this trend, they will only have the In-Season Tournament to show for at the end of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>season.



Darvin Ham’s team has alternated solid efforts with not-so-good ones, and he’s looked overwhelmed and over his head from time to time. Even so, they still have the potential to be better than his.



The Lakers have lacked a consistent effort, and they’ve dug themselves into big holes early in games way too often. Needless to say, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> isn’t satisfied with that.



<h2>Lakers Cannot Relax, Says LeBron</h2>



“Definitely we’re not a team that likes to play from behind,” James said. “We’ve been in that position a lot this year, especially in the first quarter, but we still was able to get back into the game. But they did a good job. You know, you give credit where credit’s due.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/28085733/LeBron-James-5-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="LeBron James reacts during the Lakers loss to the Thunder." class="wp-image-89310" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>LeBron James reacts during the Lakers loss to the Thunder.</figcaption></figure>



The Lakers will now play 11 of their next 12 games at home. But as good as that might seem, LeBron doesn’t want them to get too comfortable and just go through the motions:



“It could hurt us in the sense where you start to feel comfortable because you’re at home,” James said. “So we have to understand that, yes, just because we’re home, we really can’t relax now.”



<h2>Injuries Are Killing The Lakers, Says Anthony Davis</h2>



Anthony Davis also voiced his frustration about this tough stretch, talking about how their lack of depth and the countless injuries continue to hurt their chemistry and rotation:



“Rui [Hachimura] goes out. I just said that’s going to be our biggest downfall this year,” Davis said. “Not being able to stay healthy, especially coming off a back-to-back. You’re already missing Cam [Reddish], DLo.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/28092934/Anthony-Davis-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Anthony Davis" class="wp-image-77947" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Anthony Davis</figcaption></figure>



Davis talked about the team being smaller, which is kind of odd, considering they did have Christian Wood and Jaxson Hayes available in their loss to the New Orleans Pelicans:



“Obviously, Gabe [Vincent] is out for an extended period of time, but then Rui goes down,” he continued. “Now, our rotation is smaller. You lose another body as far as scoring, but yeah, I mean, defensively, we gave up a lot of threes.”



<h2>Lakers Need To Regroup</h2>



Even so, the Lakers cannot keep using the health excuse for their struggles. Austin Reaves acknowledges that as banged up as they are, everybody in the league has to deal with those issues:



“You want to win. And as a team, I believe that you know what our goal is to do is win. And you know, since the in-season tournament, we’ve been struggling. Health, you know injuries, sickness, you know we’ve kind of had some bad fortune there,” said Reaves. “But at the end of the day, it happens to everybody, and we got to look in the mirror and, you know, see what we can do to be better what I could do to be better, and just get better.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-prefer-another-player-over-zach-lavine-20231228-BUS-94819.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231228_BUS_94819_Zach-LaVine-4.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Even though the Los Angeles Lakers are expected to show an interest in Zach LaVine, they may have chosen a primary trade target.
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Injuries have obviously taken a big toll on this team, but it doesn’t seem like they have the right personnel to be a legitimate NBA championship contender, even when healthy.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="65943758355a85755992918c" data-title="Can the Lakers turn things around?" data-options="2"></div>

Lakers' LeBron James, Anthony Davis are worried after another blowout loss

Lakers' LeBron James, Anthony Davis are worried after another blowout loss - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers </a>haven’t found much success this season. They’ve crushed lesser teams, but they’ve struggled to close games out, especially against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> championship contenders. The season is still early, but it’s been a worrisome trend.



Granted that<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> LeBron James</a> has put up big numbers more often than not, but the rest of the supporting cast has been lacking. Moroever, coach Darvin Ham has often struggled to make in-game tweaks and adjustments to his injury-depleted rotations.



Also, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthony Davis </a>has alternated great games with not-so-good ones, not to mention the fact that he’s been quite passive when the game is on the line and during key stretches.



That was evident again in their game with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dallas-mavericks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dallas Mavericks</a>. James put on a show with 16 points in the fourth quarter, while Davis only took one shot in the final 12 minutes en route to a three-point loss.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/28090809/Anthony-Davis-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-85397" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div></figure>



<h2>Richard Sherman Blames Davis For Lakers Loss</h2>



That’s why former Super Bowl champion Richard Sherman didn’t mince his words against him. In the latest edition of Undisputed, Sherman stated that Davis has a tendency to disappear on the backend of back-to-back games, especially in crunch time:



“Where is Anthony Davis? File a missing person report because, again, on a back-to-back, he disappears when they need him. Sure he, had 13 rebounds but 4-for-10 from the field. Non-existent, I didn’t even hear his name being mentioned in the 4th,” Sherman said.



The former Seattle Seahawks star stated that Lakers fans should blame Davis for the loss, adding that he was supposed to take over and be the Batman to LeBron James’ Robin:



“That’s where the blame needs to be,” continued Sherman. “LeBron misses the game-tying shot in the end, but he is supposed to have given the keys to Anthony Davis. Like, this is your team; I am your running mate.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/08/28105057/anthonydavis-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-41299" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Anthony Davis</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Skip Bayless Mocks Davis</h2>



On that same note, renowned pundit Skip Bayless mocked the ‘A.D.’ nickname by claiming it stands for ‘Always Disappearing’ and called him out for not stepping up and demanding the ball in crunch time:



“A.D. too often stands for Always Disappearing, and last night he disappeared in the 4th quarter,” said Bayless.“Again, you and I, and all of us, have kicked this around and kicked him around on the show again and again and again. If you are that dude, you gotta demand the basketball, you gotta call for it, you gotta say, Remember me?” 



<h2>This Is Just Who He Is</h2>



Anthony Davis has been in the league for 11 years now, yet some people seem to forget that. He’s always been that kind of player, so asking him to be any different at this point in his career is pretty much futile.



There’s nothing wrong with not being a go-to guy. Davis is perhaps the best Robin in the league, and those help you win championships as well. Of course, it would be better if he were to take LeBron’s torch and become their leader, but that’s just not his personality.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-lakers-to-make-push-to-bring-back-alex-caruso-20231109-BUS-83883.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231109_BUS_83883_Alex-Caruso.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With the Los Angeles Lakers in desperate need of a push off the bench, Sean Deveney of Heavy.com reveals that they could look to bring back fan favorite Alex Caruso.
" title="NBA Rumors: Lakers to make push to bring back Alex Caruso" publication_id="BUS#20231109#BUS#83883"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-encourages-lakers-teammates-to-start-the-games-stronger-20231124-BUS-87445.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231124_BUS_87445_LeBron-James-8.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With the Los Angeles Lakers struggling for consistency in the 2023-24 NBA season, LeBron James addressed what his team needs to do.
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 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-lakers-have-a-priority-over-zach-lavine-20231122-BUS-87118.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231122_BUS_87118_Zach-LaVine-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Los Angeles Lakers could look to trade for Chicago Bulls star Zach LaVine, but they won&apos;t jump the gun, and have more significant priorities right now.
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Needless to say, that puts the Lakers in a tough spot, as a 39-year-old LeBron James cannot handle all the work on his own. But expecting anything different from an 11-year veteran won’t get us anywhere.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="65621eebf2b571abd7e49b85" data-title="Are the Lakers championship contenders?" data-options="2"></div>

Anthony Davis under heavy fire again on Undisputed

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Anthony Davis under heavy fire again on Undisputed - Bolavip US

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25 greatest LA Lakers of all-time: From Mikan to Kobe, a dynasty of dominance - Bolavip US

Just a couple of weeks ago, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers </a>star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthony Davis </a>talked about how much he was looking forward to facing the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Denver Nuggets</a> again. He said that he and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> had some extra motivation and unfinished business against them, and for a second, it truly seemed that way.



Davis hit the ground running and scored 17 first-half points before completely disappearing in the second half. He went scoreless and only took six shots in the final two quarters of the game, infuriating the fans for another subpar performance vs. a good team.



These issues date back to last season, in which some <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> fans even started calling him ‘Alternate Days.’ It’s a tale of two stories with him, and it seems like he cannot get back on track once the rival messes up with his rhythm.



When asked about what happened in the second half, Davis admitted that he wasn’t aggressive enough and stopped shooting, adding that the Nuggets’ adjustment of crowding the paint made life difficult for him in the restricted area.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/28092934/Anthony-Davis-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Anthony Davis" class="wp-image-77947" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Anthony Davis</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Anthony Davis Blames Double-Teams For Second Half Blunder</h2>



“They started double-teaming, trying to crowd the paint,” Davis said postgame. “I missed some easy layups around the rim, little jumpers. But I was trying to make the right play, kick it out to our guys when they double. Rui (Hachimura) hit an open three, Gabe (Vincent) had open threes, they just didn’t fall. But I have to shoot it more.”



Coach Darvin Ham still had his player’s back, praising him for keeping them close in the first half. Even so, he wants him to be way more aggressive as a scorer, which was a point of emphasis throughout the course of the entire offseason:



“Just trying to move him around and attack and play downhill. (He) had some unfortunate misses. (He) had it going there for a while, kept us close.” Ham said, “But just want him to be all-out aggressive whether it’s pick and roll, him catching the ball in trail position, him direct post-up. Just want him to be aggressive. We’ll go back and look at the film and see if there’s anything we like and then go from there.”



<h2>Lakers Need Davis</h2>



No one can deny that Anthony Davis is one of the best and most impactful players in the NBA. He can put up 30 points and 15 rebounds while also playing lockdown defense, both on the perimeter and below the rim. But he needs to bring that fire night in and night out.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/28101736/Anthony-Davis-1-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-59666" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Anthony Davis</figcaption></figure>



Coach Ham confirmed that LeBron James will be under a minute restriction for the remainder of the season. That leaves Davis as the de facto go-to guy more often than not, so he cannot afford to stop shooting or being aggressive, regardless of how he’s guarded.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-coach-makes-worrisome-comment-about-lebron-james-minutes-20231025-BUS-79877.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231025_BUS_79877_LeBron-James-6.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="LeBron James wasn&apos;t on the court as often as usual in the Los Angeles Lakers&apos; season-opening loss, and that trend isn&apos;t likely to change as the season progresses, confirms Darvin Ham.
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Davis is borderline unstoppable when he’s at his best, and the Lakers’ entire offensive game plan will be focused on him. LeBron is 39 years old and might not be physically able to lead the team, so it’s time for Davis to show why the Lakers gave him such a big contract extension this offseason.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="65395e87f2b571abd7e46273" data-title="Can Anthony Davis be the Lakers&apos; leader?" data-options="2"></div>

Anthony Davis makes up excuse after being shut down in second half of season opener

Anthony Davis makes up excuse after being shut down in second half of season opener - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> are one of the teams to watch in the 2023-24 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> season. For the first time in years, the purple and gold are seen as legit contenders. However, it’s safe to say their championship aspirations will hinge on <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis">Anthony Davis</a>‘ health.



We’re talking about two veteran stars who need no introduction, as they’ve already what they’re capable of when healthy. Last year they got the help they needed to be competitive again, but it wasn’t enough to challenge for the ring.



The 2020 championship is a testament to what LeBron and AD can do together, but it’s been three years now. Therefore, the Lakers have some pressure on their shoulders, especially since they made interesting moves in the offseason.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-send-a-big-warning-to-the-entire-nba-about-lebron-james-20230929-BUS-70028.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230929_BUS_70028_lebronjames.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="After blockbuster trades all around the NBA, the Lakers sent a very interesting message about LeBron James. 
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Rob Pelinka didn’t have to pull off much trades like he did in February, but by capitalizing on the free agency and re-signing key contributors, the Lakers have reasons to believe. The lineup is pretty much set, but the fifth spot is still up for grabs. With their opening game right around the corner, AD believes Taurean Prince can take it.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/28092932/Taurean-Prince-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Taurean Prince" class="wp-image-77948" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Taurean Prince</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Anthony Davis believes Taurean Prince is making strong case to start for the Lakers</h2>



“He’s a vet. True professional,” Davis said of Prince, via Khobi Price of the Southern California News Group. “Shooting the basketball very well in practice, games, he’s getting work in. A defender. He’s been great. I’m not sure who the starter is going to be, but I think he’s making a great case for himself.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-coach-darvin-ham-clarifies-controversial-comments-about-anthony-davis-20231018-BUS-77189.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231018_BUS_77189_Anthony-Davis.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Los Angeles Lakers coach Darvin Ham cleared the air on his comments about Anthony Davis taking six three-pointers per game next season.
" title="Lakers coach Darvin Ham clarifies controversial comments about Anthony Davis" publication_id="BUS#20231018#BUS#77189"></div>


Prince, 29, agreed on a one-year deal with the Lakers as a free agent this offseason after spending the last two years with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Though he wasn’t expected to challenge for a spot as a starter, his preseason performances put the big man in the conversation.



LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Austin Reaves, and D’Angelo Russell are all but confirmed in the Lakers lineup, but it’s still unclear who will complete the starting five. Apart from Prince, Jarred Vanderbilt and Rui Hachimura seem to be in the race for that open spot.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6531ce24f2b571abd7e459ae" data-title="Who should complete the Lakers starting five?" data-options="3"></div>


Vanderbilt made a great impression in LA since arriving from Utah in February, especially on the defensive side of the ball. His weakness, however, is in offense. Hachimura, on the other hand, has proven his ability on both sides of the floor.



<h2>Lakers hoping offseason moves take them higher</h2>



Though being swept by the Nuggets hurt, the Lakers had little to complain about last season considering how poorly they performed in the first half of the year. The February moves paid off, as the team ended up making the Conference Finals.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/28094133/LeBron-James-2-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-74160" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers</figcaption></figure>



But now it’s time to build on that turnaround, hoping to go further than in 2023. The Lakers were widely seen as the big winners of the free agency, having signed Gabe Vincent, Prince, Cam Reddish, Jaxson Hayes, and Christian Wood.



With Reaves, Hachimura and Vanderbilt tied to contract extensions, the purple and gold have secured depth. Their fifth starter may not be confirmed yet, but they have plenty of options before facing Denver on Oct. 24 in the season opener.

Anthony Davis backs Lakers teammate to start next to him, LeBron James

Anthony Davis backs Lakers teammate to start next to him, LeBron James - Bolavip US

Last week, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> coach Darvin Ham stirred the pot with some eye-popping comments. He urged <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthony Davis</a> to take six three-pointers per game, which is more than three times as many as he averages in his <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>career (1.6).



Needless to say, the comments prompted plenty of criticism and hot takes left and right. Davis is a career 30% shooter from beyond the arc, and he’s never shot better than 34% from deep. In fact, he’s coming off knocking down just 25.7% of his three-pointers on 1.3 attempts per game last season.



Today’s game requires power forwards to step up to the perimeter and stretch the floor, but that has never been Davis’ game. He’s got elite footwork and a sweet touch from close and mid-range, and while he’s able to sink an occasional three, having him chug up shots from deep might not be the wisest idea.



<h2>Darvin Ham Clarifies His Comments On Davis’ Offense</h2>



That’s why the second-year coach had to clear the air on what he actually meant when he said he wanted Davis to take that many threes. Per Ham, he was just trying to send a message and make a statement about Davis being more aggressive next season:



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/28101736/Anthony-Davis-1-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-59666" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Anthony Davis</figcaption></figure>



“People have been going crazy with that number,” Ham told ESPN. “I just think it’s me saying: I want him to be aggressive from all three levels. I don’t want him to think ‘OK, man,’ and second-guess his shot. He catches it, and no one’s in front of him, or his defender is off of him; I want him shooting the ball from three. If he happens to be in the corner, he catches it, I want him to shoot the ball from three. While still being aggressive in the low post and the midrange.”



Ham wants Davis to make the most of the looks he gets. Regardless of whether he’s a volume three-point shooter or not, he wants to make defenses pay for leaving him open and keep defenders guessing by expanding his game:



“So, it’s not like I just want him to become this exclusive stretch big all of a sudden,” he continued. “I just want him to be aggressive from each and every spot on the floor.”



<h2>Lakers Need Davis To Step Up</h2>



Six three-pointers or not, the Lakers need Anthony Davis to play like the superstar he is. He just got a multi-year contract extension, and the Lakers want him to carry <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James’</a> torch once he’s no longer with the team.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/28111316/Anthony-Davis-of-the-Lakers-during-2023-1024x572-1024x572.webp" alt="Anthony Davis of the Lakers during 2023" class="wp-image-30423" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Anthony Davis of the Lakers during 2023</figcaption></figure>



LeBron is entering his 21st season in the league, and he can only do so much at this point in his career. Davis is supposed to be in his physical prime and will be asked to be the team’s primary scorer and driving force on both ends of the floor next season.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-send-a-big-warning-to-the-entire-nba-about-lebron-james-20230929-BUS-70028.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230929_BUS_70028_lebronjames.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="After blockbuster trades all around the NBA, the Lakers sent a very interesting message about LeBron James. 
" title="NBA News: Lakers &apos;hint&apos; LeBron James might have one of the best seasons in his career" publication_id="BUS#20230929#BUS#70028"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/girl-goes-viral-for-turning-down-lakers-star-austin-reaves-20231002-BUS-71221.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231002_BUS_71221_Austin-Reaves.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="A young woman had a chance to date Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves, and now she realized she made a mistake.
" title="Girl goes viral for turning down Lakers star Austin Reaves" publication_id="BUS#20231002#BUS#71221"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/austin-reaves-considered-another-team-before-staying-with-lebron-james-at-the-lakers-20230927-BUS-68750.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230927_BUS_68750_Lakers.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Austin Reaves admitted he thought about playing for another team before re-signing with the Lakers to continue playing next to LeBron James after a successful season.
" title="Austin Reaves Considered Another Team Before Staying with LeBron James at the Lakers" publication_id="BUS#20230927#BUS#68750"></div>


Inconsistency and injuries have taken a toll on his ability to make an impact in the past couple of years. But when healthy and at his best, Davis can make a case for being the best two-way big man in the NBA.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6530193cf2b571abd7e456d0" data-title="Should Davis take six thrree-pointers per game?" data-options="2"></div>

Lakers coach Darvin Ham clarifies controversial comments about Anthony Davis

Austin Reaves Considered Another Team Before Staying with LeBron James at the Lakers

NBA News: Lakers 'hint' LeBron James might have one of the best seasons in his career

Lakers coach Darvin Ham clarifies controversial comments about Anthony Davis - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers </a>and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Nuggets</a> don’t like each other. It became loud and clear at the end of the last <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>season when they started throwing darts at each other.



They starred in an exciting series, but the Nuggets got the ultimate bragging rights for sweeping them. Also, they can talk as much as they want after winning the NBA championship.



That’s why their coach, Mike Malone, didn’t hesitate to hit back at Anthony Davis, shortly after he said he and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> were looking forward to beating them next season.



<h2>Mike Malone Fuels Fire In Beef With Lakers</h2>



“As I said after that Game 4, we have tremendous respect for that team,” Malone said. “I have tremendous respect for Darvin Ham as a coach and the job that he did. I don’t listen to any of that stuff. I don’t know what they’re saying. And if we’re on their minds, then I guess that’s on them.”



Lakers and Nuggets will square off in the first game of the regular season, and it’s going to be fireworks for sure. This is the brewing of a new rivalry in the Western Conference.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/girl-goes-viral-for-turning-down-lakers-star-austin-reaves-20231002-BUS-71221.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20231002_BUS_71221_Austin-Reaves.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="A young woman had a chance to date Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves, and now she realized she made a mistake.
" title="Girl goes viral for turning down Lakers star Austin Reaves" publication_id="BUS#20231002#BUS#71221"></div>


At the end of the day, however, bragging rights will go to whoever ends up on top in the playoffs, so the Lakers will have to wait a long time to get back at them, if ever.

Nuggets coach Mike Malone claps back at Anthony Davis over beef with Lakers

Nuggets coach Mike Malone claps back at Anthony Davis over beef with Lakers - Bolavip US

For years, the Los Angeles L<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">akers</a> have hoped <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthony Davis</a> would take a step up, as he’s been as impactful as inconsistent, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> needs as much help as he can get at this point in his career.



Davis’ inconsistency has often frustrated fans, and there have even been several reports of James not being entirely satisfied with his efforts and availability — or lack thereof.



With that in mind, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> legend Charles Barkley believes it’s time LeBron finally starts holding Davis accountable and urges him to be the focal point of Darvin Ham’s team.



<h2>Davis Needs To Step Up, Says Barkley</h2>



“At some point, LeBron gonna have to say ‘A.D.– damn, I’m 100 years old. It’s about time for you to be the best player,&apos;” Barkley jokingly said. “You are in your prime.”



At the end of the day, it’s hard to deny that Anthony Davis is one of the most impactful players on Earth, which is exactly why the Lakers can’t afford to have him show up one day and not the other.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-could-have-a-big-problem-with-anthony-davis-right-now-20230908-BUS-59663.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230908_BUS_59663_Anthony-Davis-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Even though the Los Angeles Lakers tried to give him some help, Anthony Davis might not be happy with their latest decision.
" title="Lakers could have a big problem with Anthony Davis right now" publication_id="BUS#20230908#BUS#59663"></div>


Davis just got a huge contract extension, and while he’s paid his dues in Southern California, it somehow feels like he still needs to earn that by finally carrying LeBron’s torch and being ‘the man.’

It's time LeBron James holds Anthony Davis accountable, claims Hall of Famer

It's time LeBron James holds Anthony Davis accountable, claims Hall of Famer - Bolavip US

The<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Los Angeles Lakers</a> have been one of the most active teams in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>offseason. Rob Pelinka made plenty of moves to help <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> pursue another championship.



Following months of rumors and speculation, they were finally able to land Christian Wood. The former Dallas Mavericks big man had been on their radar for quite a while.



And while one would think he’d be their starting center to allow <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthony Davis </a>to play his preferred power forward position, an ESPN report states that’s not going to be the case.



<h2>Anthony Davis Doesn’t Want To Play Center</h2>



(Via Dave McMenamin)



“Davis was slotted at center in 99% of his minutes last season, according to Cleaning the Glass data. While Davis’ performance in the middle earned him a three-year, $186 million contract extension this summer, the Lakers’ strategy with Rob Pelinka in charge of basketball operations has been to partner with their stars as stakeholders in the process.



Davis’ desire to spend more time at power forward was heard. (In addition to Wood, L.A. also signed 7-footer Jaxson Hayes.)



(…)



Wood could become a steal coming off a season in which he averaged 16.6 points and 7.3 rebounds while shooting 37.6% from 3 with the Dallas Mavericks. He could use the Lakers’ platform the same way Malik Monk and Schroder did in recent seasons to reestablish value and gain an even bigger role if James or Davis miss any significant time because of injuries.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-agent-rich-paul-reveals-why-he-left-cleveland-for-the-lakers-20230905-BUS-57368.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230905_BUS_57368_LeBron-James-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="LeBron James&apos; agent Rich Paul revealed the shocking reason why he left Cleveland to join the Lakers.
" title="LeBron James&apos; agent Rich Paul reveals why he left Cleveland for the Lakers" publication_id="BUS#20230905#BUS#57368"></div>


Davis has made it loud and clear multiple times that he doesn’t like playing center, and while he’s agreed to do it for the sake of the team, you don’t have to have an unhappy superstar for long.

Lakers could have a big problem with Anthony Davis right now

Lakers could have a big problem with Anthony Davis right now - Bolavip US

The<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Los Angeles Lakers</a> just signed <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthony Davis</a> to a huge contract extension ahead of the upcoming <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> season. On paper, that was a no-brainer move, but some fans weren’t that excited.



As talented as Davis is, his time with the Lakers has been a rollercoaster ride. Sometimes he’s great, and sometimes, he even struggles to score in double figures.



That’s why ESPN pundit Stephen A. Smith recently claimed that you simply cannot trust the former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-orleans-pelicans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Orleans Pelicans</a> star, calling him out and criticizing his work ethic and preparation.



<h2>Lakers Can’t Trust Anthony Davis</h2>



“I don’t believe in Anthony Davis, in terms of his availability,” Smith said on Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay. “Not talking about his skill set. I’m not talking about whether he cares or not. I’m talking about injury-prone, sporadic.”



“There’s something going on with him where instead of talking about me getting in the gym, you need to be talking about him getting in the gym because it’s up and down,” he continued. “It’s like this brother sat and ate a healthy meal one day and then ate a bag of Skittles the next. It’s this plummet, you know what I’m saying. I don’t understand it and I can’t have faith in that.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-agent-rich-paul-reveals-why-he-left-cleveland-for-the-lakers-20230905-BUS-57368.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230905_BUS_57368_LeBron-James-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="LeBron James&apos; agent Rich Paul revealed the shocking reason why he left Cleveland to join the Lakers.
" title="LeBron James&apos; agent Rich Paul reveals why he left Cleveland for the Lakers" publication_id="BUS#20230905#BUS#57368"></div>


LeBron James shouldn’t be asked to carry the load at this point in his career, and that’s on Davis. Hopefully, this will be the year he finally steps up as a leader and allows James to stay fresh for the postseason.

Stephen A. Smith Puts 'Untrustworthy' Anthony Davis On Blast

Stephen A. Smith Puts 'Untrustworthy' Anthony Davis On Blast - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> have done a great job of putting together a deep and talented team. As great as<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> LeBron James</a> is, he cannot win an<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> NBA</a> championship on his own.



James is far beyond his prime, and while this version of himself is still better than 75% of the players in the league, but he’s not getting any younger. Even so, he recently claimed that he doesn’t get tired and can still ball out at a high level.



That’s why ESPN pundit Stephen A. Smith went on record to call him a liar, stating that it’s obvious that he’s exhausted. Even so, he didn’t blame him for that, and instead challenged<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Anthony Davis</a> to help him out.



<h2>Stephen A. Smith Rips Anthony Davis Over LeBron James’ Comments</h2>



“He’s lying,” Smith said on First Take. “He has gotten tired, but that’s okay. LeBron James, of all the things that make him an extraordinary role model, the greatest thing to me is his conditioning and his commitment to being in shape. It was a travesty that this man, in his 20th season, was in better shape than most of the league last year, including his teammate Anthony Davis.”



“When I think about LeBron in shape, the first name that comes to mind is Anthony Davis,” he continued. “This man vouched for you, he put his name on the line for you, but he can’t score 40 points in one game and 11 in another.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">"He&apos;s lying. He has gotten tired… It was a travesty that this man, in his 20th season, was in better shape than most of the league last year, including his teammate Anthony Davis." Stephen A. Smith on LeBron James&apos; &apos;I don&apos;t get tired&apos; comment<a href="https://t.co/2YA8Optuz9">pic.twitter.com/2YA8Optuz9</a> <a href="https://t.co/cvUcPtbLsF">https://t.co/cvUcPtbLsF</a>— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClutchPoints/status/1696918110555562142?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/former-player-shares-the-reason-why-lebron-james-scoring-record-will-hold-on-forever-20230830-BUS-54620.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230830_BUS_54620_LeBron-James-5.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Regardless of how many talented players are in today&apos;s NBA, Byron Scott doesn&apos;t see anyone taking down LeBron James&apos; scoring record.
" title="Former player shares the reason why LeBron James&apos; scoring record will hold on forever" publication_id="BUS#20230830#BUS#54620"></div>


Smith is right on point there. No team should have to count on a 39-year-old to go the distance, and Davis has failed to be the franchise stalwart the Lakers hoped he’d be. It’s finally time he takes over.

Stephen A. Smith calls LeBron James a liar

Stephen A. Smith calls LeBron James a liar - Bolavip US

For the first time in years, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> are going into an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> season with serious aspirations. With <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> ready to run things back, the purple and gold seem to have reasons to believe.



Rob Pelinka finally fixed the roster at the February trade deadline, and this offseason he kept up with the good work by making more moves that put the Lakers in a position to succeed.



But of course, it’s still too soon to tell how far they can go next season. According to Charles Barkley, the Lakers will only have a chance to win if <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis">Anthony Davis</a> plays at an MVP level throughout the year.



<h2>Charles Barkley says LeBron’s Lakers depend on Anthony Davis to win</h2>



“Sometimes, when sports and the games are close, you are like, man, we are close, but the Lakers aren’t. Now, it will be interesting about all the stuff they did; as I said last season, it will all come down to Anthony Davis,” Chucky said on the Bill Simmons podcast, via Lakers Nation.



“If Anthony Davis, as much as I love LeBron, I said last season and two seasons before. The Lakers are not going anywhere if Anthony Davis is not an MVP candidate. The Lakers were lucky to have a great draw in the playoffs, but AD does not have a MVP caliber season; the Lakers are going nowhere.”



<h2>How old is Anthony Davis?</h2>



Born on March 11, 1993 in Chicago, Illinois, Anthony Davis is 30 years old.



<h2>When does Anthony Davis’ contract with Lakers expire?</h2>



Anthony Davis agreed on a three-year contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason, keeping him with the team through 2028.

LeBron James, Lakers success hinges on one key factor, Charles Barkley says

Charles Barkley claims LeBron James, Lakers success hinges on one key factor - Bolavip US

Charles Barkley claims LeBron James, Lakers success hinges on one key factor

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> have gone through a lot in recent years, but good things finally seem to be on the horizon for them. The 2023-24 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> season is drawing nearer, and the expectations in LA are through the roof.



Rob Pelinka had already improved the roster in February, which ended up saving the season as the team made a surprising run to the Conference Finals. But now, the goal is to go even further.



The purple and gold made a number of moves this offseason to continue improving the roster, including giving Anthony Davis an extension. According to Kevin Garnett, the big man will prove his doubters wrong in the next two seasons.



<h2>Kevin Garnett expects Anthony Davis to be NBA MVP in 2023, 2024</h2>



“Guess what? I’m expecting Anthony Davis to be MVP in these next two years,” Garnett said, via Showtime Basketball. “It’s time bro. It’s time. You can’t let Joker [Nikola Jokic] come in the league and surpass – nah, nah, nah. Anthony Davis can do everything they can do. 



“Anthony Davis can do everything that Joker can do. He can do everything [Joel] Embiid can do. I’m expecting him to be MVP if not this year, definitely next year, straight up. And he’s going to take the reins of, ‘Yeah, I’m the best player in the league.’



AD has certainly proven what he’s capable of on the court. The problem is he struggled to stay healthy in the last few seasons. When injuries don’t catch up to him, Davis definitely has what it takes to play at an MVP level.

It's not LeBron James: Former NBA champion says Lakers star will be MVP the next two years

Not LeBron: Former NBA champion says Lakers star will be MVP the next two years - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> needed to lock up <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-davis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthony Davis</a> for the future<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">. LeBron James </a>won’t play forever, and he’s inching closer to retirement as the seasons go by.



Davis has been a pivotal part of the team’s success. Nonetheless, as good as he’s been when they’ve fared well, he’s also been quite unimpressive when things don’t go their way.



That’s why Stephen A. Smith doesn’t seem to agree with the contract extension he just got, citing that you need to be consistent in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> to get that kind of money.



<h2>Stephen A. Smith Criticizes Anthony Davis’ Extension</h2>



“I love AD; love him as a person and a player,” Smith started. “$62 million, though? His talent is worth it, but his consistency isn’t. He’ll show up one day and not show up the next day. He’ll drop 40 in Game 1, 11 in Game 2. I’d much rather have you average 28 night-in night-out rather than each and every night; it’s a damn rollercoaster.”



“You had Charles Barkley calling him street clothes,” continued Smith. “I never called him that; I call him Six Flags because it’s a rollercoaster ride. He’s up and down. I’ve got mad respect for his game. I know he’s one of the elite players in this game today, but the consistency is not there.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/the-lakers-didnt-extend-anthony-davis-because-of-his-play-20230814-BUS-45968.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230814_BUS_45968_Anthony-Davis-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="As good as Anthony Davis is as a player, that wasn&apos;t the reason why the Los Angeles Lakers signed him to a big contract extension.
" title="The Lakers didn&apos;t extend Anthony Davis because of his play" publication_id="BUS#20230814#BUS#45968"></div>


At the end of the day, Davis has more than enough talent and resources to prove the critics wrong. But he’ll have to work very hard to pay back that confidence the team put in him.

Insider explains why Anthony Davis didn't deserve that extension

Insider explains why Anthony Davis didn't deserve that extension - Bolavip US

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