NBA Season Preview 2022-23: 5 players with the most to prove this season
By Luke Anton
1. Anthony Davis — Los Angeles Lakers
No player in the NBA has dropped more precipitously in the player ranks than Anthony Davis since the Bubble. His health and availability are the biggest reason why. It’s difficult to be one of the game’s best players if you aren’t actually playing games on the court. Lakers fans would be ecstatic to see even 60 games from Davis this season. But before that, AD has to prove he can play more than half the season, something he hasn’t done in either of the last two years.
AD has been moving better so far this preseason. Sitting out the Lakers’ second game with lower back tightness was concerning, but he suited up and played in the third game against the Warriors on Sunday night when LeBron, Westbrook and Pat Bev all sat out. That is encouraging, just like his game-high 28 points and shooting 8-for-8 on free throws. His shot appears to have a much better rhythm to it.
A healthy Anthony Davis completely changes the conversation surrounding the redemption-seeking Los Angeles Lakers.
Anthony Davis told ESPN he plans to have a chip on his shoulder this season, channeling the same approach he brought to LA in 2019-20. The Lakers have training camp T-shirts that say “CHIP” across the front, a little double entendre for their mindset and motivation.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) September 26, 2022
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