Anthony Davis of the Los Angeles Lakers recently signed a new three-year deal that will have him making $186 million.
When discussing the contract extension, the Lakers said that they value Davis not only as a player but also as a leader.
Some people have scoffed at the concept of Davis as a leader before, saying he hasn’t shown he can fill that role.
Former player Gilbert Arenas is tired of hearing it.
On Twitter, he came to Davis’ defense, saying, “Anthony Davis did everything the Lakers asked him to do!”
He added: “Don’t let LeBron’s dominance at his age make you think that AD still not HIM.”
Anthony Davis did everything the Lakers asked him to do!
Don’t let LeBron’s dominance at his age make you think that AD still not HIM. pic.twitter.com/qZjhE5CFeJ
— Gilbert Arenas (@GilsArenaShow) August 8, 2023
In a video clip he also posted, Arenas said that “LeBron James put so much pressure on people.”
He claims that because James is so good at his age, he is casting a large shadow on everyone else.
Other players, such as Davis, can’t just be terrific, they have to be downright phenomenal.
That is definitely true for Davis’ leadership skills.
He might not be in the same league as James when it comes to being the man who drives, inspires, and leads a team.
But, really, who is?
When Davis was initially signed by the Lakers a few years ago, the front office said they envisioned him as the future of the franchise and the team’s central figure.
And while he has done very well, he is still second-in-command behind James.
Is that a comment on Davis lacking skills or a testament to just how great James is?
Playing alongside James will help players win championships and improve their games.
But it sometimes also obscures just how much talent they have, especially when it comes to leadership.
NEXT: Rob Pelinka Discusses Anthony Davis' Importance After Contract Extension
