Los Angeles Lakers: 3 Reasons trading for Anthony Davis has proven to be smart

– Team defense has improved

One of the reasons for the Lakers struggling before this season was their defense. On that end of the court, the Lakers were frequently one of the worst teams in the NBA. And as the saying goes, defense wins championships.

After the failed 2018-19 season, the Lakers certainly addressed the defensive end of the court with the addition of Davis. Davis is one of the best defenders in the league, as he length, size, and speed allow him to do a lot on that end of the court just like on offense.

However, while Davis is a great defender, he is also one that makes the entire team better defensively. Having a guy like Davis who can protect the rim allows the guards to be a little more aggressive up top without the fear of being blown by and giving up a basket.

At times this season, the Lakers have been suffocating on defense. With their anchor in the middle in Davis, everything is funneled toward him or one of the centers to make a play. When the Lakers traded for Davis, they knew they were going to be a getting a great defensive player. However, Davis is a true candidate for Defensive Player of the Year in his first season with the team.