NBA Playoffs 2020: 5 reasons the Los Angeles Lakers can win it all

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 03: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers stands on the court in a game against the Philadelphia 76ers during the first half at Staples Center on March 03, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) /

2 of 5

Anthony Davis is starving for playoff success. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) /

4. Anthony Davis is hungry

Davis undoubtedly enjoyed this regular-season success with the Lakers, but he moved to Los Angeles to experience postseason success. He’ll enter the playoffs desperate to show the world that he can dominate when the games matter most.

That’s really bad news for Western Conference teams hoping to knock the Lakers out of the playoffs. They’re going to see a highly motivated Davis as soon as play restarts.

That could be most impactful on the defensive end of the court. When Davis is switched on, he can guard any wing or big in the league at a high level. It’s not an exaggeration to say that he can shut down any team’s best big man in a playoff series. His combination of length and quick feet allow him to check guys in the post and on the perimeter.

As good as his defense can be, he may still be even more impactful on the offensive end of the floor. His ability to stretch the floor with his jump shot gives LeBron James more room to operate when driving through the lane. If Davis is efficient with his jumper, that could easily knock a team or two out of the playoffs.

Home/Los Angeles Lakers