“With LeBron James Out, Anthony Davis Will Step Up!”: Lakers Legend Comments on AD’s Role After Signing ‘Massive’ $186,000,000 Extension

Anthony Davis has signed a massive three-year contract extension with the Lakers that is worth an impressive $186,000,000. The contract will allow AD to remain in LA till the 2027-28 season. Speaking about the extension, Lakers legend and icon James Worthy claimed this extension should lead to a change in Anthony Davis’ attitude toward his role with the team in some way or another. As revealed in Worthy’s interview with Spectrum SportsNet, the Lakers legend believes Davis must take on increased responsibility as James enters his career’s crucial and likely last few seasons.

Worthy is an undisputed Lakers legend. He was a key member of the legendary 80s Lakers and went on to win three championships alongside Magic Johnson. His dedication to the team and his achievements with the gold and purples speak for themselves. So, naturally, even after decades of retirement, Worthy is still a keen observer of the current Lakers. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that he was interested in Davis’ contract and future potential.

James Worthy shares his opinion on Anthony Davis’ extravagant extension

James Worthy, while on Spectrum SportsNet, said that he was ‘thrilled’ when he heard about Davis’ extension. He explained that Davis will play a vital role in the Lakers’ future accomplishments with LeBron James not too far from retirement. Worthy even went on to claim Davis could be the face of the franchise.

“With LeBron out of the picture, I think AD’s the guy and I think he will step up and answer the call.” James Worthy on Anthony Davis’s future with the #Lakers. pic.twitter.com/F9P5wnBEsz

— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) August 11, 2023

“With LeBron [James] out of the picture, I think [Anthony Davis] is the guy, and I think he will step up and answer the call,” Worthy said of AD’s future.

Worthy, in his praise, went on to suggest that Anthony Davis shows ample potential to grow as a leader and a face of the franchise. He claimed the star was equipped with the skills and leadership skills needed to make this switch. Although AD’s health has been a big concern for his critics, Worthy seemingly did not let this affect his perception of the star player.

Is Anthony Davis really the Lakers’ future?

Anthony Davis has certainly shown moments of brilliance in his time with the team. Although slightly unreliable pertaining to his health issues, Davis’ skillset has been undeniable. In fact, in 2019, per Slam Magazine, LeBron James handed the keys to the Lakers’ offense to Davis which led to the 6ft 10″ forward dominating the game.

LeBron claimed he is okay being the supporting act to Anthony Davis. Although we are yet to see Anthony Davis become the leading force for the team, his performance during the playoffs gave us a hint of what LeBron James implied with his statement. Hopefully, AD can remain healthy and avoid injuries to unlock his true potential in the near future.