Charles Barkley to Anthony Davis: 'You got to play better'

“[The Lakers] put all them old a– geezers together and just trying to blame other people. It ain’t right and it ain’t cool,” Barkley said. “Listen, Anthony Davis, you got to play better. I said if the Lakers were going to be any good, it was all going to be on you. It has nothing to do with Russell, it had nothing to do with LeBron and the rest of them old a— geezers they put together. But now you crossed the line, because I really like Frank Vogel. It ain’t his fault.

“In my opinion, I blame Anthony Davis. Anthony Davis, I like you as a person. But you ain’t doing what you’re supposed to be doing. You’re 27 years old. You’re supposed to be in your prime. You’re supposed to be one of the five best players in the world. And you ain’t holding up your end of the bargain.”

Whether he’s right or wrong is a matter of opinion, but that sort of take is likely to light a fire under Davis’ rear. The Lakers’ front office should pay Barkley for his commentary, especially if it results in some improved play.