Anthony Davis has been an integral part of the Los Angeles Lakers since he joined the team in 2019. His arrival from the New Orleans Pelicans brought stability to the team’s roster. Along with LeBron James, Davis helped the Lakers win their 17th title in the 2019-20 season. Since then, it has been a tough ride for the eight-time All-Star.
The fans and the team look up to AD to guide them through to the finals. Moreover, the front office is now looking up to the eight-time All-Star more than ever. They are keen on building a championship-winning roster, and they want Anthony Davis to lead them to glory. The Lakers hope he will lead them in an even post-LeBron James era.
Anthony Davis Will Have A Possible Contract Extension Next Month
Rob Pelinka and the front office plan to do everything to help AD to play as many games as possible. Since 2020-21, Anthony Davis has not played more than 60 games in a season. However, to win a title, he will need to play a lot more than that. But his delicate fitness is not a good sign. That’s why many fans and experts believe it’s better not to extend his contract after next year. Both Davis and LeBron James have one more year remaining in their current contract. In the current free agency, the Lakers are pretty much complete with their roster. They are only looking for a big man to take some pressure off Anthony Davis.
One more center is what the Lakers are looking for. But AD will be eligible for a contract extension from the next month. From August 4, the eight-time All-Star will be eligible for a three-year contract worth $167.6 million. However, due to the new CBA, the front office of the Lakers won’t be able to discuss with AD regarding the contract. According to the Athletic, Rob Pelinka mentioned, “We just love having AD around. He has done so much for the team. Won a title in 2020 and last season led the team to the WCF with an injured foot.” Hence, the Lakers are likely to sign for an extension if the feeling is mutual.
Perkins Put More Pressure On AD
The Lakers might not want to take any chances as LeBron James may not play anymore after the next season. Hence, the 17-time champions must think about the post-King James era. Moreover, a former NBA Champion, Kendrick Perkins, mentioned on First Take of ESPN, “LeBron won’t help the Lakers win another title. Instead, it is AD who’ll play a crucial role.” According to Perkins, the Lakers will go as far as AD can carry them. Hence, the onus is on Anthony Davis more than LeBron James.
In the last season, AD was in terrific form but very inconsistent. At first, it was a miracle when he helped the Lakers make the postseason. Later, the 17-time champions reached the conference finals as well. Anthony Davis helped the Lakers become the strongest defensive side of the tournament. However, the season did not end on a happy note. The Lakers did not win the title they were hoping for.
