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Mark J. Terrill / Associated Press
Anthony Davis is still a free agent, but NBA teams hoping to keep him away from the Los Angeles Lakers should probably turn their attention elsewhere.
Broderick Turner from Los Angeles Times Davis and Klutch Sports agent Rich Paul reported to meet with the Lakers on Tuesday. Los Angeles general manager Rob Pelinka is expected to attend the meeting.
According to Marc Stein of New York TimesDavis is expected to “finalize a maximum deal with the Lakers soon.” Stein was the first to report that a meeting could take place on Tuesday.
To say that the Davis acquisition has revitalized the Lakers would be an understatement.
They missed out on the playoffs entirely in LeBron James’ debut season of 2018-19, but added the big man in a trade with the New Orleans Pelicans ahead of the 2019-20 campaign. While giving up on Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, and Josh Hart had implications for the future, the opportunity to team up with Davis and James was too enticing to pass up.
All the Lakers did was win a championship in the pair’s first season with Davis averaging 26.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 2.3 blocks and 1.5 interceptions per game.
It’s hard to envision a better situation for the 27-year-old tall man, which is surely one of the reasons he is expected to sign with the defending champions again.
He can play alongside an all-time greats at James and take advantage of the space and pick-and-roll opportunities that result. This takes some of the offensive pressure off him and allows him to compete in championships.
If he signs a long-term deal, he’ll also be able to shoulder the proverbial King’s torch when LeBron, who turns 36 in December, decides to retire or step back as the main playmaker. .
Expect Davis to sign a notable deal with the Lakers in the near future that will set both the team and the star player ready for long-term success.
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