Lakers News: Anthony Davis Falls Behind Notable Names in 2023-2024 DPOY Betting Odds
Anthony Davis has been a force for the Los Angeles Lakers since he was traded to the team in 2020.
He made his presence felt immediately, becoming a key part of the franchise alongside LeBron James as the superstar duo led the Lakers to the 2020 NBA Finals, a battle that saw the Lakers coming out on top over the Miami Heat to bring a title to Los Angeles.
It's been more of the same for the 30-year-old when he's been healthy, and he's been a defensive stalwart for the Lakers since he made the move to LA three years ago.
He's coming off a great season, as he averaged a double-double along with two blocks and one steal per contest in 2023.
Aside from the numbers, he's very athletic, with good lateral quickness and is great at protecting the rim -- something that teammate Austin Reaves complemented him on.
"He’s obviously a good person to have on your team, especially defensively. I don’t think he gets enough credit for what he does (defensively) for us as guards. Knowing you have him as a rim protector, you can be more physical, more aggressive, you can shoot passing lanes and know if they get in the paint then it’s going to be tough to get two anyways."
Despite all that, Davis isn't ranked among the top contenders for the 2023-2024 Defensive Player of the Year Award, per BetOnline.
While it's understandable for reigning DPOY Jaren Jackson Jr. to top the list, Davis went toe to toe with the Grizzlies big man when he was on the court.
Giannis Antetokounmpo being near the top is understandable, but a case can be made that Davis should have better odds than him, and especially Evan Mobley who ranks second behind Jackson.
Mobley had a solid second NBA season, but hasn't yet reached the heights that Davis has and it'd be surprising if he does this coming year, and that's no knock on Mobley.
It's definitely unexpected that Davis ranks as low as he does on this list, and Lakers fans can expect him to prove people wrong as he and his team try to build on the success of last season.
