NBA's Greatest Players in History: Anthony Davis

• 8-time NBA All-Star (2014-2021)
• 4-time All-NBA First Team selection (2015, 2017, 2018, 2020)
• NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers (2020)
• Member of the NBA's 75 Anniversary Team

Anthony Davis is a generational talent, combining elite defensive skills with a versatile offensive game that has redefined the modern big man position.

Overview

Anthony Davis, affectionately known as "AD", has established himself as one of the most dominant and versatile players in NBA history. Standing at 6'10" with a 7'6" wingspan, Davis possesses a rare combination of size, athleticism, and skill that allows him to impact the game on both ends of the floor. Since entering the league as the first overall pick in 2012, Davis has consistently been one of the NBA's premier players, earning multiple All-Star and All-NBA selections while cementing his status as a defensive anchor and offensive powerhouse.

Career snapshot

Davis began his NBA journey with the New Orleans Pelicans (then Hornets), where he quickly emerged as a franchise cornerstone. His ability to protect the rim, rebound, and score from various positions on the court made him a nightmare for opponents. In 2019, Davis was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, forming a formidable duo with LeBron James. This partnership culminated in an NBA championship in 2020, with Davis playing a crucial role in the Lakers' success.

Playing style

What sets Anthony Davis apart is his unique blend of traditional big man skills and guard-like abilities. On offence, Davis is equally comfortable posting up, facing up from mid-range, or even stretching the floor with his improved three-point shot. His ball-handling skills allow him to lead fast breaks and create his own shots, a rarity for players his size.

Defensively, Davis is a game-changer. His exceptional timing and length make him one of the league's premier shot-blockers, while his lateral quickness allows him to switch onto smaller players effectively. This defensive versatility, combined with his offensive prowess, makes Davis a true two-way superstar.

Why Davis is on our List

Anthony Davis earns his place among the most dominant players in NBA history due to his unparalleled impact on both ends of the court. Few players in league history have been able to influence the game in as many ways as Davis. His ability to anchor a defence while serving as a primary offensive option puts him in elite company.

Davis's accolades speak for themselves: multiple All-Star appearances, All-NBA selections, and All-Defensive team honours. His playoff performances, particularly during the Lakers' 2020 championship run, showcase his ability to elevate his game when it matters most.

Moreover, Davis has redefined the expectations for modern big men. His skill set has forced teams to rethink traditional positional roles and defensive schemes. The threat he poses from multiple areas on the court makes him nearly unguardable when healthy and in form.

Five Fast Facts

1. Led the NBA in blocks per game three times (2014, 2015, 2018)
2. Recorded the highest single-game scoring performance of the 2015-16 season with 59 points against the Detroit Pistons
3. Won an Olympic gold medal with Team USA in 2012
4. Holds the Pelicans/Hornets franchise record for points in a playoff game (47)
5. Became the youngest player to score 59+ points in an NBA game since the ABA-NBA merger

Career Highlights Timeline

2012: Selected first overall in the NBA Draft by the New Orleans Hornets

2014: Made his first NBA All-Star appearance

2015: Led the NBA in blocks per game and earned his first All-NBA First Team selection

2017: Named MVP of the NBA All-Star Game

2018: Finished third in MVP voting after averaging 28.1 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game

2019: Traded to the Los Angeles Lakers

2020: Won his first NBA championship, playing a crucial role in the Lakers' playoff run

2021: Signed a five-year, $190 million contract extension with the Lakers

Anthony Davis's dominance on the court, combined with his unique skill set and impact on the modern game, solidifies his place among the NBA's all-time greats. As he continues to evolve and add to his already impressive resume, Davis's legacy as one of the most versatile and dominant players in league history only grows stronger.

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