Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Former NBA champion piles pressure onto Anthony Davis

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 7/13/23

LeBron James put the minds of Los Angeles Lakers fans around the world at rest during an appearance at the ESPYs. After teasing a potential retirement following the Lakers' postseason elimination, LeBron confirmed he would be returning for his 21st season in the league.

According to former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins, who was speaking on a recent episode of ESPN's "First Take," LeBron should not be expected to lead the Lakers to a championship. Instead, Los Angeles should look toward Anthony Davis to lead the charge.

"I think he's [LeBron James] the greatest player of all time," Perkins said. "We could debate that another day. I'm standing on that ten toes down. But when it comes down to putting expectations on a guy that's going to be 39 years old in December, I just can't do that. Especially when he's playing alongside a guy that is in his prime, [and] a top-five talent in Anthony Davis. This shouldn't be on LeBron James. Now, should LeBron James be the second option? Absolutely. But this Laker team is going to go as far as Anthony Davis could carry [them]."

Davis has a lot to prove next season. To begin the 2022-23 campaign, Davis was a perennial MVP candidate following a string of dominant performances. However, a foot injury derailed Davis' momentum, and he never took control of the Lakers roster upon returning to the rotation. Injuries have been Davis' pitfall in recent years. Since Los Angeles won a championship in 2020, Davis hasn't been able to stay on the court.

LeBron isn't the all-conquering force of nature he used to be. The NBA's all-time leading scorer needs help. Davis is supposed to be the guy to take over the mantle as the Lakers' primary threat on both sides of the floor.

At this current stage in his career, LeBron will need to take a step back. This season will be vital for Davis' legacy and his future with the Lakers roster. Now is the time for Davis to emerge as the dominant force he's proven capable of being. LeBron wants another championship. LeBron deserves another championship. Now the pressure is on Davis to help LeBron get there.

More must-reads: