- Lakers finalized 3-year extension with AD
- Pelinka says star big man is ready to lead
- Lakers GM says it’s a “proud day” for the fans
With LeBron James set to return for his 21st season, the Lakers looked to secure the long-term future of Anthony Davis, their 29-year-old big man who is next in line to become the head of the Lakers.
After signing a 3-year extension worth $186 million, Davis is set to be a Laker until 2028 and Pelinka says he’s ready to take the reigns…
“In our conversations with Anthony, his desire to lead our franchise for the next several years became abundantly clear. It is a proud day for Lakers Nation when we’re able to extend the contract of one of the game’s most dominant two-way players.”
Rob Pelinka: “In our conversations with Anthony, his desire to lead our franchise for the next several years became abundantly clear … It is a proud day for Lakers Nation when we’re able to extend the contract of one of the game’s most dominant two-way players.” https://t.co/TEzEjWKcIL
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) August 6, 2023
There is no question that Davis is a max-level player. Based on talent alone, he’s one of the top players in the game and his impact is felt on both ends. The real problem for AD is durability. Despite averaging almost 25.9 points per game this past season, he was in and out of the lineup all year, as has been the case for him for most of his career.
For the Lakers, it’s more important now than ever that Davis steps up as a leader both on and off the court as LeBron continues to decline.
Will AD Live Up To His New Contract?
After years of rebuilding after the Kobe era, the Lakers have no interest in starting over in the post-LeBron era. So as the team works to win with LeBron now while they can, they’ll also be aiming to build around Davis and pivot toward him as the face of the future.
“They understand AD and his work ethic has shown,” Davis’ Agent told Sportskeeda. “He has some injuries, but it wasn’t due to him not working. It’s not like he came into camp overweight or showed any laziness. There were just fluke things. That happens in the game.”
This summer, LA decided to prioritize role-players over chasing stars and it could be a move that pays off for them. If Davis can just stay healthy and play aggressively, it will be all the Lakers need to make a run in the West.
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