Home Basketball Stephen A. Smith Casts Doubt on Anthony Davis’s Consistency

Stephen A. Smith Casts Doubt on Anthony Davis’s Consistency

Basketball — 10/22/2023

During a recent episode of ESPN’s First Take, Stephen A. Smith shared his concerns about the Los Angeles Lakers’ prospects this season, with particular emphasis on Anthony Davis. Smith called for more consistent performance from the Lakers’ big man, questioning whether Davis will be a superstar or display unpredictable form.

$62 Million? 62 Million Dollars?”: Stephen A Smith Questions Anthony Davis' $186,000,000 Extension Weeks After Laughing at His 'Wheelchair Departure' - The SportsRush

 

“Is Anthony Davis going to be a Superstar or is he gonna be what I call ‘Six Flags?'” Stephen A. Smith queried. “He shows up one game, drops 40, shows up the next game, and he’s missing in action. Shows up another game, drops 35, then goes missing. He struggled to string back-to-back games together throughout the postseason. There were still missing persons reports out for him while he was in uniform. He can’t afford to be that.”

NBA Playoffs 2023: Biggest storylines, Damian Lillard future, trade, contract, Miami Heat cap space, Golden State Warriors, Klay Thompson extension

 

Anthony Davis has long shouldered the burden of carrying the Lakers, but injuries and inconsistency have hindered his performance. Last season, despite flashes of brilliance, Davis struggled to maintain a high level of play for extended periods. By the end of the season, his statistics appeared solid on paper, averaging 25.9 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game. However, he often faltered when the stakes were at their highest, impacting the Lakers’ performance.

Inconsistent Play From Anthony Davis

Lakers News: Why Stephen A Smith Hates Idea Of Anthony Davis Playing On Olympic Team - All Lakers | News, Rumors, Videos, Schedule, Roster, Salaries And More

 

As an eight-time All-Star, four-time All-NBA player, and four-time All-Defensive standout, Anthony Davis has demonstrated his status as one of the world’s premier players. To further establish himself as a leader, he needs to deliver consistent performances and maintain better health over extended periods. At the age of 30, Davis must seize the opportunity to become the Lakers’ primary player for years to come, especially with LeBron James nearing the age of 39.

Lakers’ Title Window Closing

Stephen A. Smith Declares What Lakers Should Do With Anthony Davis

 

With LeBron James approaching 39 years old, the Lakers face a shrinking window of opportunity to secure another championship in this era. Although James continues to perform at an elite level, concerns about his availability as he ages have become more pronounced. Therefore, the Lakers will rely on players like Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and D’Angelo Russell to provide additional support and make the team a multifaceted contender as the season unfolds.