Kendrick Perkins believes the situation the LA Lakers are in, is perfect for Anthony Davis to prove himself.
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Anthony Davis has had a roller coaster of an NBA season so far. He was in stellar form during the month of December and his presence was helping the LA Lakers make strides in the Western Conference. However, the 29 -year-old suffered a foot injury, which meant that he would be out of action for a few weeks. Since returning back, the eight-time All-Star has not been able to dominate his opponents like he is used to.
The Lakers have looked solid since the trade deadline. Despite LeBron James’ injury, many are counting on them to be a playoff team as the like of Jarred Vanderbilt, Malik Beasley and D’Angelo Russell have already shown signs of brilliance. Russell has been out with an ankle injury, but he is expected to be back on the court soon. Kendrick Perkins believes that even with LeBron James out, the Lakers could be a playoff team as they have Anthony Davis on the roster. The former NBA champion believes that with James out, AD would have the chance to rise to the occasion and prove that he is one of the best bigs in the league.
“I think the Lakers will be just fine. LeBron James was very very critical of the addition of the play-in tournament, but it will turn out to be the Lakers’ best friend. I think this is the moment where Anthony Davis can rise to the occasion and put his name in that conversation with guys like Giannis and Jokic and Embiid,” said Perkins on ESPN’s Get Up.
Anthony Davis is currently averaging 25.8 PPG, 12.6 RPG and 2.1 Blocks per game this season. With him on the side, the Purple and Gold definitely can compete against the other sides in the West. The inclusion of Jarred Vanderbilt has given the team a strong presence on the boards and this has taken some pressure off AD. However, the 2020 NBA champion will have to make use of this and deliver elite performances to lead the Lakers to a place in the playoffs.
Anthony Davis is regarded by many as one of the most talented players in the NBA. His ability to provide solidity on the offensive and defensive ends is what makes him an elite player in the league. The 29-year-old has proven that he could lead the way for the Lakers on many occasions, but the predicament the Lakers are in right now is the perfect time for AD to cement his trust among fans.
Following the exit of Russell Westbrook, the Lakers were able to add a lot of wing players to the roster and this has helped them increase their efficiency on the defensive and offensive ends of the floor. The Lakers have a talented bunch of players and all of this has made the fans in LA relatively happy. However, the ultimate goal is to reach the playoffs and for that to happen, they will need Anthony Davis to be at his best. If he is able to replicate the performances from earlier this season, the purple and gold will most definitely make it to the playoffs and be a side to watch out for in the West.
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