Anthony Davis Leads Lakers with Historic Start as LeBron Embraces New Role

Posted : 26 October 2024

After an impressive performance that set a record unseen in over half a century, Anthony Davis has cemented his role as a crucial player for the Los Angeles Lakers. His back-to-back games, each scoring 35 or more points, have not been achieved by a Laker since Elgin Baylor and Jerry West over five decades ago. With 36 points in the season opener followed by 35 in their recent 116-123 victory over the Phoenix Suns, Davis has not only led the team to a 2-0 season start but also helped the Lakers accomplish this feat for the first time since 2010.

Davis's streak also marks him as the first Laker since Kobe Bryant in 2005 to score 30 or more in the first two games of a season. In this latest game, he rallied his team from a 22-point deficit against a major Western Conference opponent, scoring efficiently with an 11-for-18 field-goal performance and 13-of-17 from the free-throw line. His contribution went beyond scoring, grabbing eight rebounds and making two blocks, with nine points of his total coming in the game’s final minutes, showing his ability to perform under pressure.

Teammate Austin Reaves, who had an outstanding night himself with 26 points, five successful three-pointers, and eight assists, praised Davis post-game, stating, "He's the best player on our team and we play through him." Reaves’ confidence in Davis reflects the team’s acknowledgment of his leadership and pivotal role. Reaves also emphasized the expectation for Davis to bring that level of dominance every night, underscoring the central position Davis holds in the Lakers’ strategy moving forward.

Even LeBron James, despite his legacy and dominance over the past 20 years, has openly recognized Davis’s importance this season. LeBron expressed that Davis must be the focal point for the team’s aspirations of competing at the league’s top level. Although LeBron’s statement signals a shift, it doesn’t mean he’s stepping back; he scored 17 of his 21 points in the second half, contributing significantly to the Lakers' comeback. As he nears 40 and enters his 22nd season, LeBron remains committed to playing every game, hinting that he’s prepared to support Davis while still being a crucial force on the court.

Anthony Davis Leads Lakers with Historic Start as LeBron Embraces New Role

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