Anthony Davis has not been his best offensively since the start of the 2021-22 season, and it is affecting the Los Angeles Lakers despite all the blame going to Russell Westbrook. Fans have claimed that he lost interest in the game after winning one championship, while some others have opted to draw comparisons between him and Milwaukee Bucks Giannis Antetokounmpo, a freakishly athletic forward.
Back in 2014, when AD was still with the New Orleans Pelicans, he caught the eyes of many because of his effectiveness on both ends of the floor. One notable mention is the NBA legend Kobe Byrant.
Kobe spoke on Davis and his ability, basically calling him Pau Gasol 2.0.
Kobe on AD: "He's an athletic Pau Gasol. That's the best way I can put it. He can be one of the greatest power forwards who has ever played"
— Bill Oram (@billoram) November 12, 2014
“He’s an athletic Pau Gasol. That’s the best way I can put it. He can be one of the greatest power forwards who has ever played.”
Anyone that watched Kobe plays knows how highly he rated Pau. Both players developed a strong relationship on and off the court, winning two championships in 2009 and 2010. And that is why this complement is a big deal, especially since it came from Black Mamba himself.
Davis’ skill and athleticism cannot be denied, as he has a plethora of moves to beat you in the low post. But it does not look like Davis has reached another gear in his game, especially since LeBron categorically told him the Lakers was his team.
Perhaps The Brow is being cautious as he had injury troubles for the later part of the season. AD is sturdy, which is why every Lakers fan gasps every time he hits the deck.
Nonetheless, there is a lot AD can do to prove the legendary Kobe right, and at the top of that list is to play with a bit more aggression.
AD made the NBA top 75 list at No. 57. Many believe that Dwight Howard should have been selected ahead of Davis, and you could see reason with that. So far this season, AD is averaging 24.2 points, 10.1 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.3 steals, and 2.3 blocks.
