Anthony Davis ready to be Lakers’ No. 1 offensive option: ‘I’ve got goosebumps just thinking about this year’ – Yahoo Sports

LOS ANGELES To say Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis is eager to embark upon the 2022-23 season would be an understatement.

Im so excited that Ive got goosebumps just thinking about this year, Davis told Yahoo Sports this week. Im looking forward to a healthy year and doing what I know we can do.

Having played in only 40 games due to injuries last season, and with the Lakers missing the playoffs altogether, the 29-year-old power forward said hes on a mission to help lead the franchise to a bounce-back year.

I went into this summer focusing on strengthening my body, Davis told Yahoo Sports. I have to be on the court and at my best to put us in position to be our best. Im ready to do that.

Head coach Darvin Ham will look to utilize the eight-time All-Star as the No. 1 offensive option to aid in minimizing the workload of four-time MVP LeBron James, who is entering his 20th season.

Davis said James, 37, has been in his ear about taking over the reins of the team, while the rest of the roster would follow his lead.

Being a dominant force on both ends of the court, the skill set is there. The question all along has been his durability.

Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis and head coach Darvin Ham chat during Lakers media day at UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, California, on Sept. 26, 2022. (Christina House / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

Those close to Davis shared with Yahoo Sports that the forward had his best summer of training. There has always been chatter about Davis leading the Lakers for a full season, but those close to him believe he has positioned himself to do so this year.

All I can do is lead by my actions, Davis told Yahoo Sports. Im excited for this challenge and whats ahead. I think we have a great group of guys to get the job done. Its now about putting in the work.

Ham has already put members of the team on notice: If you dont commit to playing defense, you wont play.

Offseason addition Patrick Beverley said he has already started watching film on some of the Lakers games from last season to get a feel for the defensive adjustments he can implement.

Davis said the team has bought into Hams defensive philosophy and hes looking forward to it all coming together.

Thats where well be at our strongest, defensively, Davis told Yahoo Sports. Im going to demand we stay committed and lead on that end, as well. I love playing defense. I think youll see a much different Lakers team, and I cant wait to get out there.

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Anthony Davis ready to be Lakers' No. 1 offensive option: 'I've got goosebumps just thinking about this year' - Yahoo Sports