The Los Angeles Lakers have secured their star forward, Anthony Davis, for the foreseeable future. Davis recently agreed to a three-year, $186 million maximum contract extension, making it the richest annual contract extension in NBA history. The deal will tie Davis to the Lakers until 2028, with a total earning potential of $270 million. This move solidifies Davis’ position as a cornerstone of the team alongside LeBron James, as they aim to bring more success to the franchise.
Davis’ performance on the court has been exceptional, solidifying his worth to the Lakers organization. Last season, he averaged an impressive 26 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game, shooting at a career-high 56% success rate. His contributions were vital in guiding the Lakers to the Western Conference finals. Furthermore, Davis has been recognized as a four-time All-NBA first-team player, showcasing his consistent excellence in the league.
When it comes to scoring and shot-blocking, Davis ranks among the very best. He has posted season averages of 25 points and two blocks on five occasions throughout his career. This places him third in NBA history, only behind the legendary Shaquille O’Neal and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, according to ESPN Stats & Information research. Davis’ impact extends to the playoffs as well, as he became only the third Lakers player to accumulate 50 blocks in a single postseason, joining the esteemed company of O’Neal and Abdul-Jabbar.
A Championship Duo
Davis’ arrival in Los Angeles as part of a blockbuster trade in 2019, alongside LeBron James, proved to be a game-changer for the Lakers. Together, they led the team to a triumphant 2020 NBA championship. Their contracts were aligned, emphasizing their mutual commitment to the franchise. However, Davis’ new extension goes beyond James’ current contract, bridging the gap for continued success even after James’ potential departure in the future.
The Lakers’ front office, led by general manager Rob Pelinka, wasted no time in securing Davis’ extension. Alongside this significant move, the team has also made several other signings to bolster their roster. This summer, they added Rui Hachimura, Austin Reaves, and Gabe Vincent to their lineup, all of whom have signed contracts that extend through 2025. These moves demonstrate the organization’s commitment to building a competitive team for years to come.
Rob Pelinka, the Lakers’ general manager, spoke highly of Anthony Davis, acknowledging his immense contributions both on and off the court. Davis’ leadership qualities and championship mentality have made him an invaluable asset to the franchise. Pelinka expressed his admiration for Davis, highlighting his role in delivering a championship to the Lakers and his ability to lead the team as an exceptional captain.
Anthony Davis’ contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers signifies the team’s commitment to building a sustained period of success. Davis’ outstanding performance and remarkable achievements have rightly earned him the honor of being one of the highest-paid players in NBA history. With Davis and James leading the charge, the Lakers have positioned themselves as formidable contenders for years to come.