Lakers News: Why Center Help Was Such A Focus For LA’s Team Building This Summer

It all makes sense now...

Since coming to the Los Angeles Lakers, Anthony Davis has been pretty clear about not wanting to play center full-time. He is cool playing it during the playoffs, as it gives LA an advantage to go small, while still having him man the middle.

But last season took a toll on Davis due to the lack of depth behind him. So entering this upcoming season, Davis made it clear to the organization that he wanted to play more power forward, at least during the regular season.

“Sources told ESPN that Davis made it clear to the organization he wanted to have more support at center so he wouldn't have to play so much 5 during the regular season.”

Per Dave McMenamin of ESPN.com

This is a big reason why the team added in center Christian Wood to the mix. Wood allows Davis to slide to the power forward position when they are on the court together, and he can take minutes from Davis while he rests.

“Davis' desire to spend more time at power forward was heard. (In addition to Wood, L.A. also signed 7-footer Jaxson Hayes.)”

Per Dave McMenamin of ESPN.com

Wood also allows Davis to play inside when they share the court together due to his ability to stretch the floor. If Wood buys into the Lakers system, it could be a very dangerous duo offensively.

Davis is much better when he is being aggressive and bodying opponents down low. It’s when he steps away from the key and becomes jump shot-reliant that his game can take a hit.

But it seems that the Lakers understand this and are doing what they can to make Davis happy. After all, he did just sign a new contract extension with the team, and he is their future in the post-LeBron James era.

Another defensive masterclass by Anthony Davis.

Some of the highlights 👇🏼 pic.twitter.com/hlnYW3kJub

— Esfandiar Baraheni (@JustEsBaraheni) May 7, 2023

Davis just needs to remain healthy this season, and the sky is the limit for him. He is the engine that gets the Lakers going, and they are going to be counting on him heavily once again.

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