Anthony Davis, aged 30, was already under contract for the 2023-24 season with a salary of $40.6 million, and he retained the option for an early termination worth $43.2 million for the 2024-25 season. However, fresh details reveal that his new contract will officially commence in the 2025-26 season, as per ESPN’s Bobby Marks.

 

The Los Angeles Lakers faced considerable uncertainty during the offseason, primarily sparked by LeBron James hinting at possible retirement after the Denver Nuggets convincingly bested the Lakers in the Western Conference Finals. This raised questions about Anthony Davis’ long-term commitment to the Lakers if James were to step aside from the equation. Thankfully, the most recent announcement resolves these uncertainties.

 

There is no denying that Davis was always destined for a lucrative contract. Eight-time NBA All-Star, four-time first-team All-NBA member, and two-time first-team All-Defensive selection athletes typically secure the extensions they desire.

Considering his remarkable performance last season, averaging 25.9 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game, Davis continues to assert himself as one of the most dominant big men in the league when he’s in good health.

 

Nonetheless, some concerns revolve around his ability to lead in critical games, his perimeter shooting (as he managed only a 25.7 percent three-point shooting rate last season), and the potential impact of age on his durability, given his history of injuries.

 

Despite these concerns, the Lakers’ decision to extend Davis was a logical one. Ensuring his presence on the team until the 2027-28 season signifies that the Lakers will maintain their competitiveness for the foreseeable future.