Anthony Davis, the Los Angeles Lakers star, is dominating headlines with his incredible play in the early 2024-25 NBA season.
Just eight games into the season, Davis has achieved 10+ steals and 10+ blocks, standing alone in this unique defensive category. But, he doesn’t stop there. He’s topping the league in scoring with 32.6 points a game.
To add to his resume, he also contributes 11.7 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.9 blocks per contest while shooting 57.1% from the field in seven games, making him a top contender for MVP.
The Game Changer, Anthony Davis Being In Or Out
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Davis’ absence with left heel soreness created a major void in the Lakers’ Wednesday matchup against Memphis. With him out, the Grizzlies stayed true to form, scoring 60 points in the paint.
To make matters worse, the Lakers were missing a key component in the middle, resulting in a deficit of 32.6 points and 11.6 rebounds per game.
LeBron James tried to compensate for the scoring deficit, but only Austin Reaves, the best runner-up, could muster 19 points, falling far short of what Davis could provide.
With Anthony Davis out, the Lakers’ defense is practically nonexistent, as the most notable difference is the gaping hole he leaves in the paint.
While he’s been a rock for the Lakers in the early season, Davis has often battled injuries in the past, and his ability to stay on the floor is key for their season’s success. If he can remain healthy, Davis has the potential to not only lead the Lakers to a potentially deep playoff run but also secure the MVP and the Defensive Player of the Year honor.
As it stands currently, according to FanDuel, Davis is the seventh-favorite to take home MVP with +1900 odds and is the fourth-favorite to take home the Defensive Player of the Year with +1500.
With each game this season, Davis’s story grows, leaving fans eager to see how far he’ll go.
After the Grizzlies’ loss, the Lakers return to L.A., ready to take on the 76ers Friday, with Davis expected to be back in play.