Lakers still expected to re-sign Anthony Davis to big extension

Now that Anthony Davis forced his way to L.A., don’t expect him to leave anytime soon

Anthony Davis can opt out of his contract after this season with the Lakers, and while he’s expected to do so to take full advantage of the financial system, Rob Pelinka and Co. have plenty of financial capital necessary to keep him in the City of Angels.

AD has formed a dynamic duo with LeBron James, and LBJ’s pitch included making Davis the face of the Lakers in due time. Davis, who will be 28 years old next season, is ready to take over that role when called upon.

Will the Lakers have trouble affording Anthony Davis because of COVID-19?

That seems unlikely. Sure, the Lakers are going to have to cough up a five-year, $202 million extension, but their local TV deal brings in anywhere from $200 million. Add in a national television revenue share of $100 million, plus jersey sales, etc. and the Lakers are not struggling financially, even if they aren’t reaching the heights previously expected for 2020, as are most well-run organizations in professional sports.

Davis understands the legacy of Laker big men before him — with the likes of Kareem, Wilt and Shaq having set Hall of Fame expectations for him. Rather than shy away from those goals, AD has accepted that responsibility. His acknowledgement of the path in front of him, combined with the Lakers typical allure of star power, leads NBA analysts like Chris Haynes and Brian Windhorst to assume the two sides will find a way to get a deal done.

“No one within league circles anticipates Davis leaving the Lakers after one season,” Haynes wrote.

With that future all but set, Davis can take his rightful place on the Lakers Mount Rushmore of bigs when all is said and done.