Anthony Davis’ impact on the Los Angeles Lakers franchise is undeniable. After being traded to the team, he and LeBron James formed a dynamic duo that led the Lakers to an NBA Championship and another trip to the Western Conference Finals, creating countless memorable moments along the way.
Beyond their on-court success, Davis and LeBron developed a deep friendship off the court as well. They have often referred to each other as brothers, and their bond extends far beyond basketball. Although the Lakers did not plan to trade Davis, the offer from the Dallas Mavericks was simply too good to pass up.
Davis made his return to Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday, though he was unable to play due to injury, as the Lakers faced off against the Mavericks. In honor of his contributions, the organization put together a tribute video, which was played during the game. LeBron watched the entire tribute and had nothing but admiration for his former teammate.
“I definitely saw it. I watched it from start to finish,” LeBron said. “We know what AD was to this franchise and what he did for this franchise from the moment we got him to hoisting the Larry O’Brien trophy to All-Star nods to winning the In-Season Tournament in the first inaugural In-Season Tournament and many, many dominant nights. Not only in this building but also on the road as well. Obviously, our friendship goes without saying. He’s one of my best friends and it was great to see him get that recognition and get that moment.”
Davis is undoubtedly worthy of all the praise and appreciation he received from the Lakers and their fans. One day, his jersey will hang in the rafters alongside Lakers legends such as Shaquille O’Neal, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Wilt Chamberlain, George Mikan, and Pau Gasol, cementing his place in the franchise’s storied history.
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