Lakers News: Writer Crowns Anthony Davis As Best Defender In NBA Playoffs

It was a block party and everyone was invited!

Your Los Angeles Lakers made a fun run to the Western Conference Finals this season and while the ultimate goal wasn't achieved, it set the foundation for next season. Many were quick to blame star Anthony Davis for his lack of offensive consistency and while it may be true, he provided extreme value in other ways. Lost in all the talk was that Davis put on a masterclass on defense throughout the postseason. 

Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report handed out awards for the postseason and he labelled Davis as the best defender from the playoffs. He's correct because Davis was on an absolute tear during these playoffs. His ability to check guards and centers alike, gave the Lakers a major advantage on that end of the floor. 

ANTHONY DAVIS BLOCK. 🔒

pic.twitter.com/IXO6ETBxdz

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) April 29, 2023

Against the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round, Davis hosted his own block party. He swatted 26 shots over the six games series and showed sent the Grizzlies home. He followed that up with 13 over six games against the Golden State Warriors and then 11 against Denver.

Anthony Davis’ series-long BLOCK PARTY: pic.twitter.com/kqsLQkAQ3T

— Brett Usher (@UsherNBA) April 29, 2023

Davis showed everyone that he is still the best defender at the rim and that getting any bucket over him would be a challenge. He also added in 22 steals over the course of the playoff run, which for a big man is extremely impressive.

His instincts on the defensive side of the floor are special and allow Los Angeles the ability to use different schemes to attack opponents. The Lakers were one of the better teams on defense post trade deadline and Davis was the leading man for it.  

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