Anthony Davis Lakers
Sep 27, 2019; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward/center Anthony Davis listens to a question during the Lakers media day at the UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, CA. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

Anthony Davis has been leading the Los Angeles Lakers since the last season. He led the team well in the absence of LeBron James when the all-time leading scorer stayed out due to a tendon injury on his right foot. Moreover, under AD’s leadership, the Lakers became the strongest defense last season. Later, they even reached the Western Conference Finals last season. But the Lakers Faithful fears for AD’s fragile health. However, the LA side managed to have a better record than .500. Currently, they are 9-7. Moreover, the Lakers are doing pretty well at the new in-season tournament.

They have made it to the playoffs for the new inaugural season of the NBA Cup. However, they had a shaky start to the season, as they lost in six games in their first twelve games. But in the game against the Utah Jazz, what caught the people’s attention was that AD and LBJ did not play in the entire fourth quarter. However, the Lakers blew the Jazz apart, winning the game 131-99. Perhaps the reason the Lakers had the game under control was why Darvin Ham thought about resting his top two stars.

   

Anthony Davis Believes Rest Is Essential Ahead Of Back-To-Back Games Against Tough Opponents

LeBron James Anthony Davis Lakers
LeBron James, Anthony Davis Lakers Source: Eurohoops

In the Jazz game, LeBron James played 24 minutes, scoring 17 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists. On the other hand, Anthony Davis played for 29 minutes, scoring 26 points and 16 rebounds. Lately, AD spoke in an interview, where he spoke about the importance of rest for both him and LBJ. Moreover, Anthony Davis mentioned before facing a tough opponent like the Dallas Mavericks, they need some much-needed rest. Adding to that, he mentioned that it already feels refreshing after sitting out for the last quarter entirely.

Moreover, Anthony Davis feels when they play at home court they can eat and sleep at their own home. That’s comforting. But it also helps in preparing for a tough game the next day. Moreover, knowing that a tough game is coming soon, sitting out the entire last quarter against the Jazz felt really good, as per AD. Lately, the Lakers big man is focusing on getting back to the fundamentals, playing hard, and playing aggressively. But most importantly, have fun. That’s what Anthony Davis hopes to do.   

The Lakers Are Struggling With Injuries At Present

Jarred Vanderbilt Lakers
Jarred Vanderbilt Lakers Source: Lake Show Life

The eight-time All-Star has missed several games in his career due to his weak physique. But fans and experts know that if Anthony Davis stays healthy, then he can be the best player in the league. Moreover, the front office has faith that he can lead the Lakers to their 18th title. But Anthony Davis must play more than 75 games to lead the Lakers to title success. The only way he can do that is to get some much-needed rest in between back-to-back games. Moreover, the Lakers can provide that support to the eight-time All-Star.

It is because the Lakers have enough depth and balance. However, at present, the situation is getting tougher because of a number of injuries to key players. The Lakers have missed the services of Jarred Vanderbilt since the first few preseason games. Moreover, Gabe Vincent has not played in the last ten games or more. Adding to the Injured List, Jalen Hood-Schifino and Cam Reddish also sustained injuries. Hence, the current situation is testing the Lakers bench strength pretty hard.