Ever since Anthony Davis was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers four years ago, they have looked to transition the scoring burden onto him and make him their No. 1 offensive option.
While it has happened in spurts, it hasn’t fully happened, partly because of Davis’ seemingly annual injuries.
But many have criticized the superstar big man for allegedly being inconsistent, lazy and unmotivated, even though such criticism is clearly hyperbolic.
Former NBA superstar and current Turner Sports personality Charles Barkley is one of Davis’ biggest critics. He has called Davis “street clothes” because of his frequent injuries, and he recently said LeBron James should try a new tactic to fire up the Lakers power forward/center.
Via Fadeaway World:
“At some point, LeBron gonna have to say ‘AD … damn … I’m 100 years old. It’s about time for you to be the best player.’ You are in your prime.”
Davis is coming off a sensational 2022-23 season in which he averaged 25.9 points and 12.5 rebounds a game while shooting 56.3% from the field. His rebounding average and shooting accuracy were both career highs.
The good news for Davis and the 38-year-old James is the Lakers’ roster is chock-full of offensive firepower, which means the Lakers can likely withstand the occasional poor offensive outing from the former.