“I want to pass like LeBron James and Nikola Jokic”: Anthony Davis reveals his goal is to emulate Lakers MVP’s ability to dish out assists

Anthony Davis says that he is focused on learning how to pass like LeBron James and Marc Gasol to help improve his game.

The Los Angeles Lakers provided the New Orleans Pelicans with a massive haul in the 2019 offseason to acquire the All-NBA big man, Anthony Davis. At the time, many were iffy on the idea of giving up so many assets, including Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram for Davis.

Fast-forward a year later, the Pelicans missed the Playoffs and the Lakers hoisted the Larry O’Brien trophy.

Anthony Davis was instrumental to the Lakers’ success as he was the 1B to LeBron James’s 1A. The Lakers’s defense is centered around AD’s ability to switch onto the perimeter and also blocks shots in the paint. His versatility on the defensive end of the floor makes for a DPOY calibre year nearly each season.

Also Read: “Paul George may have been inspired by Lakers mascot Jared Dudley”: Skip Bayless hints that Clippers star was indignant to not be considered on LeBron James’ level

Anthony Davis looks to acquire LeBron James’s passing ability

Apart from defense, the 6’10 forward is a jack of all trades on the offensive end of the floor. He can back you down in the post for an array of moves – including but not limited to post fadeaways and spin moves to the bucket.

He could also pick and pop from beyond the arc as he knocks down spot-up 3s at a solid clip. Now, it seems as though Davis wants to master yet another trait: passing.

“Some of the plays LeBron James and Marc Gasol make are unbelievable to me. Especially for Marc because he’s a bigger guy. There’s a handful of bigs that can actually make those passes like Nikola Jokic and Draymond Green.”

Anthony Davis’ passing has taken a significant step forward pic.twitter.com/pC1ARzWcAc

— Jackson Frank (@jackfrank_jjf) January 19, 2021

Also Read: ‘Injuries have slowed Anthony Davis down’: Lakers’ coach Frank Vogel explains AD’s slow start to the season despite LeBron James popping off

Marc Gasol had a few words of wisdom for the 2020 champ. “At the end of the day, he has to make the read and see what the defesne is trying to bait him into and at the same time, has to stay aggressive.”

Davis’s willingness to pass this season has become quite noticeable. There are times during games where he will catch the ball on the left or right block and look to find passing lanes. Before, AD would simply go to work as that is his spot and unleash on array of moves to get a shot off. It is clear he wants to get more guys involved.

One thing’s for certain; if he wants to get better at distributing the rock, having Gasol and LeBron as your mentors is a step in the right direction.