The Los Angeles Lakers need Anthony Davis on the floor.
Davis has left a lot to be desired this season, barely playing and looking like someone who doesn’t want to be there more often than not.
AD’s body language has been a subject of debate among NBA circles for quite some time now, especially after he didn’t even bat an eye when LeBron James broke Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s scoring record.
Moreover, some recent reports state that LeBron and his camp aren’t happy with Davis’ lack of availability and accountability and that their relationship has started to drift.
And with LeBron making it clear that he intends to put his body on the line and do whatever it takes to be available for the team’s 23 final regular-season games, NBA analyst Chris Broussard believes he’s sending Davis a clear message:
“LeBron James is sending a message to one Anthony Davis,” Broussard said. “Dallas’ objective this summer is Kyrie for AD sign-and-trade. If AD doesn’t ball in these last 23 games, the Lakers might look at something like that.”
"LeBron James is sending a message to one Anthony Davis. … Dallas' objective this summer is Kyrie for AD sign-and-trade. If AD doesn't ball in these last 23 games, the Lakers might look at something like that."
— @Chris_Broussard explains: pic.twitter.com/Aul5R7XCs9
— First Things First (@FTFonFS1) February 20, 2023
Truth be told, it’s about time that James starts holding Davis accountable.
He’s never healthy, and it doesn’t seem like he handles criticism or suggestions lightly, even refusing to play at center if needed just because he doesn’t like that kind of physicality.
Davis is a superstar and borderline Hall of Famer.
He’s one of the most talented and impactful two-way players this game has ever seen, but what is that good for if he’s only available half of the time?
Even if they make a deep playoff run, the Lakers should revisit Davis’ trade value this offseason, as those injury woes are never going to go away at this point.
It’s as simple as that.
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