(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Lakers started their 2023-24 season with a disappointing loss to the Denver Nuggets.
However, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers bounced back in the second game of the regular season, registering a 100-95 win over the Phoenix Suns.
Davis put up 30 points, 12 rebounds, and 2 assists in 39 minutes.
It was a much-improved performance for Davis, who struggled to get going in the second half of the season opener.
James defended Davis against criticism by using NSFW language on national television, and NBA analyst Rachel Nichols wasn’t happy with James’ comments (via Undisputed on Twitter).
“LeBron didn’t have to defend AD with the way he played last night. That’s the Anthony Davis everyone wants… How come he can’t do this every night?” Nichols wondered.
LeBron downplays criticism of Anthony Davis:
“LeBron didn’t have to defend AD with the way he played last night. That’s the Anthony Davis everyone wants… How come he can’t do this every night?” — @Rachel__Nichols pic.twitter.com/FpvLMPWBfk
— UNDISPUTED (@undisputed) October 27, 2023
Davis had just 17 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists in the season opener as he struggled to score in the second half.
For the game, Davis shot an abysmal 6-17, which played a crucial role in the Lakers’ defeat.
However, Davis made a stunning comeback against the Suns, shooting 10-17 from the field and totaling 30 points for the Lakers.
While it’s good to see James assume the leadership role for the Lakers, Nichols believes Davis didn’t deserve to be defended.
Instead, she wondered why Davis doesn’t perform similarly to how he played vs. the Suns on a nightly basis.
Davis is one of the best players in the NBA when he’s in the zone.
But over the last few years, fans have noticed a steep decline in his consistency on the floor.
Can Davis become consistent for the Lakers during the regular season?
Only time will tell.
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