Darvin Ham outlines Anthony Davis’s impact for LA Lakers so far
LA Lakers head coach Darvin Ham heaped praise on his superstar Anthony Davis. He shed light on Davis' brave display against the Denver Nuggets, outlining the impact his big man had on the game.
Anthony Davis has been a pivotal figure in the LA Lakers' schemes for the better part of the last three years. After joining the side in the 2019-20 season, he immediately made his presence known, playing a vital role in leading the side to the title.
As one of the best two-way big men in the game, the superstar has a lot to offer in terms of impact. Unfortunately, this aspect of his game has been diluted due to his constant run-ins with injury.
Darvin Ham took note of this after the team's recent win against the Denver Nuggets. While the team as a whole played well, Anthony Davis played a huge role in setting the tone by playing through injury.
Ham outlined the impact Davis had on the team when he bravely played through injury. He said:
"This is determination to be present on both sides of the ball. Be effective on both sides of the ball. Make an impact on both sides of the ball. They mentioned it earlier about him grimacing during the game and I looked at him and I said - gestured, 'You need a break?' He waved me off and you know, he wants to dispel that myth that he's never available.
"He's had some unfortunate injuries over the last couple of years but I can tell you right now, he's been nothing short of monstrous since I've shown up. Everything we've thrown at him, he's erased it. He's out there helping guys, talking to guys during defense. Always asking questions, which is a great thing. But he's determined to be there for us this year."
"[Davis] has been nothing short of monstrous." - Coach Darvin Ham on how impactful Anthony Davis has been so far. https://t.co/lue5OjAJKk
Ham also shed light on the importance of managing his injury. He mentioned that it was the team's job to ensure that Davis is in a position to compete before every game.
Anthony Davis' presence on the floor certainly played a huge role in the LA Lakers' success. As their defensive anchor and offensive focal point, Davis was asked to do a lot for the team and the superstar stepped up against the Nuggets.
Needless to say, the results were more than satisfactory.
Concerns around Anthony Davis' injury continue to plague the LA Lakers
While the sight of Anthony Davis bravely playing through injury managed to spur some motivation within the LA Lakers roster, the team will have to monitor the situation closely.
Davis has been experiencing lower back tightness since the start of the preseason. While this has already seen him sidelined from one game in the regular-season, the Lakers will hope to contain the situation.
An unnamed NBA executive also recently expressed his doubts with AD's injury. With external concerns also affecting judgment, the Purple and Gold will have to ensure that their superstar remains healthy.
With their first win of the season credited to AD and Russell Westbrook, the LA Lakers will hope to turn the corner. However, coming up against the fifth-ranked New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday may be a tall order.