Excellent since the start of the Lakers’ preparation, Anthony Davis hopes to return to his best level this season, and no longer chain injuries. His coach, Darvin Ham, however reshuffled the cards about him during his last update!
With only 40 games played last year, he knows that the failure of the Lakers can in part be attributed to his still handicapping physical fragility. As such, Anthony Davis arrives again with the knife between the teeth this season. Determined to spend more time on the pitch and regain its past splendor, the star interior nevertheless risks having to deal with an unexpected deal.
New position and new role for Anthony Davis?
Established in position 4 during the meeting against the Kings, a few days ago already, Davis had shown himself rather to his advantage, with 11 points and 11 rebounds accumulated in 16 short minutes. Shifted as a pivot against the Warriors this Sunday, he shone again with 28 points scored in 21 minutes. It is therefore in this position that he could start the season according to Darvin Ham, but with very specific instructions:
Darvin Ham practice notes:
-AD starting at the 5 is under “heavy consideration”
-He wants AD to have a career high in 3-point attempts this season
-Schroder will likely play a few minutes on Wednesday night. Other than that, it will be close to regular season minutes & rotations—Daniel Starkand (@DStarkand) October 10, 2022
After practice (on Monday), Darvin Ham said that:
– Starting AD at position 5 is “seriously considered”
– Wants AD to average record 3-point shots attempted per game this season
– Schröder will certainly play a few minutes on Wednesday evening. Other than that, the minutes and rotations will be close to those of the regular season
Historically used as a strong winger, AD has already stated on many occasions that he preferred this position, even if he was ready to abandon it in sequence, and in particular in the playoffs. Therefore, the fact of seeing his coaching staff considering making him the starting pivot of the Angelinos is already surprising. Even more in view of the recruitment carried out this summer.
As a reminder, the Purple & Gold got their hands on two professional centers during the offseason, namely Damian Jones and Thomas Bryant. Not sure that the latter therefore appreciate being robbed of their place by Davis. Finally, the 3-point address of the Unibrow in career (30.3%, 18.6% last year) does not really have enough to justify a desire to make it a sniper. So many thoughts that raise questions among fans!
The Anthony Davis case continues to be debated at the Lakers, and not necessarily because of his health. Darvin Ham’s plan concerning him is indeed perplexing, and will have to be accompanied by big results so as not to find himself criticized from all sides!