Los Angeles Lakers: Weighing options at the starting center position

Los Angeles Lakers: Anthony Davis could start at center during 2021-22 season

Anthony Davis proclaimed at Media Day that he does indeed expect to play center for the Lakers this coming season. This is big news because Davis has expressed displeasure playing the position in the past, despite Los Angeles playing some of their best basketball when he is there. This new willingness from Davis is certainly because it is for the betterment of the team, particularly his new point guard in Westbrook.

While Davis is not an elite outside shooter by any means, he offers more spacing than someone like Howard or Jordan. That means he can clear the lane and give Westbrook the runway he needs to attack the rim with authority, which would help him thrive in his new environment. Davis at the center position also offers up endless lineup combinations for this team. This could get players like Carmelo Anthony, Wayne Ellington, Malik Monk, and Trevor Ariza, among others, more involved while bringing more 3-point shooting to the table at any given time.

Due to his newfound willingness to play the position, Davis seems like the obvious choice to play center for the Lakers this coming season. Having Howard and Jordan would allow the team to not play Davis at the position each and every night for every minute he is on the floor, but there is no denying that this team is lethal when he is at the five. Everyone is curious to see how Westbrook fits in with this team, and perhaps Davis accepting this role will be the key to unlocking it.