Intro
Kicking off our top 10 is Lakers star Anthony Davis. An elite two-way player and athlete who excels in many areas of the game. The former number pick has been playing at an all-star level for a decade. The Lakers winning heavily depends on Davis’ production and his all-around impact.
Top 25 NBA players 2023-24: No. 10 Anthony Davis
A Two Way Star
Davis has an incredible impact on both ends of the floor. When he’s at his best there are only a few players that are better than him. Davis’ biggest strength is his incredible defense and rim protection. Davis is an elite shot-blocking and rim-protector who anchors the Lakers defense. Furthermore, Davis’ presence at the rim deters the offense from attacking and changes their game plan. When healthy Davis is clearly one of the league’s best defenders. Offensively he’s a gifted and athletic interior scorer capable of putting up 25 plus points a night. Davis is also a solid mid-range shooter with great movement and handles for his size. Despite his clear talent offensively Davis inconsistent offensive aggression holds him back.
Season Recap
The Lakers season was all over the place. As was Davis’ health and production. Battling separate foot and calf injuries Davis played in 56 regular season games. Davis was productive on both ends of the floor especially defensively. However, offensive aggression remained a constant concern. The Lakers had an incredible mid-season turnaround resulting in a 7th seed after being outside the playoffs for the majority of the regular season.
In the playoffs, Davis appeared in all 16 games battling through injuries in the process. Davis’ defense remained the staple of the Lakers success. Furthermore, Davis’ rim protection changed the Grizzlies and Warriors offensive strategies in the first two rounds. As a result, many began to argue that Davis is the best defender in the league. While the Lakers would ultimately fall to the eventual champion Denver Nuggets in the Conference Finals this playoff run further proved Davis’ impact and value. Going forward Davis can build off this playoff run and become the elite star everyone knows he is capable of.
Season Outlook
This off-season Davis was rewarded with a massive 3 year 186 million contract extension. This contract is a vote of confidence from the Lakers front office but it also sets up a prove it year for Davis. For years Davis has had the talent to be a top 5 level player. In his New Orleans days, he was viewed as a top 5 player with the upside to be the best player in the league one day.
Even though Davis never quite fulfilled these many people have been waiting for him to officially take the reins from LeBron James as the Lakers best player. With LeBron soon turning 39 and entering his 21st season now is the perfect season for Davis to establish himself as the team’s best player. Furthermore, if Davis is healthy and playing to his full potential the Lakers upside and championship chances increase. Additionally, if Davis can take the reins from LeBron this year, and lead the Lakers to a strong record he could be a dark horse in the MVP race.
The Last Word on Anthony Davis
When Davis is at his best he is undoubtedly a top 5 level player. Despite his clear talent and incredible gifts, it feels like something is always missing from him. Injuries, inconsistent play, or a lack of aggression on offense are all common factors that hold Davis back. Ultimately, Davis needs to play to his full potential for the Lakers to have the best chance of winning and to further rise in the top 10.
