Anthony Davis has been one of the more strange stories in the NBA. However, despite all the hardship, AD just wants to hoop. Since the blockbuster trade that sent AD from L.A. to Dallas for Luka Doncic, Mavs fans have been in shambles. Davis was injured his first game in a Dallas jersey, and shortly after, they would lose Kyrie Irving to a torn ACL. However, in AD’s return the big man was ready to rock.
As reported by ESPN, on Wednesday night, the Dallas Mavericks took on the Atlanta Hawks in an interconference matchup. However, Anthony Davis would be playing only his second game as a Maverick. Although, that would not be an issue. Davis had erupted for an astonishing 34 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 blocks. On Top of that, AD hit the game-winner to send the Hawks back to Atlanta with a big loss. It seems Davis is playing “Free” basketball once again, and it looks great. Davis has dealt with trades and injuries his entire career. From forcing his way out of NOLA to getting shipped off by the Lakers, AD knows it is a business. However, his injuries have kept Anthony from being a consistent factor on a team.
NBA Star Anthony Davis Opens up Regarding His New Outlook on Basketball
“I was just going to play and just whatever happens, happens. Just go out there and just play with a lot of energy, a lot of force, a lot of dominance and be able to catch a rhythm.”
Davis also explains how his mental health plays a huge factor in his on-court play. “It’s just a mental hurdle,” says Davis regarding getting back on the court. Davis has allowed himself to play with a more carefree attitude. This may be possible due to the fact he is no longer teammates with LeBron James. D’angelo Russell said something very similar after he was traded out of Los Angeles and away from “The King.”
Despite the reason for Anothy Davis’ new outlook on the game, one thing is clear. AD is a dominant force when healthy. However, staying healthy is the true challenge for the big man. Davis has the skill to be one of the most dominant centers of all time. The NBA needs players like AD in the three-point shot era to balance out the game. Davis will get another shot next season with the Mavs, but for now, the fans are still unhappy. However, AD may have shined a beam of hope into that Dallas crowd.
