Fans cast shadows over Anthony Davis’ ability to carry Lakers as brutal losses threaten playoff chances

One of the Los Angeles Lakers’ star players, Anthony Davis, has been criticized by fans for his inability to carry the team through some brutal losses.

The Los Angeles Lakers drove high into the post-All-Star break after a brilliant 7-3 start and looked all set for playoff contenders. However, their fortunes took a nosedive with back-to-back losses to the Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks, leaving them struggling with a 34-37 record in 10th place in the Western Conference.

Fans are divided on their playoff prospects, with opinions ranging from bullish optimism to gloomy pessimism.

One fan quickly threw cold water on the Lakers’ playoff hopes, declaring that “Anthony Davis can’t carry a team.”

No they won’t make it, AD can’t carry a team

— Mr Swooty🗣💯 (@SwootyMr) March 18, 2023

Another fan was more optimistic, citing their recent good form and claiming that “they should be able to make the playoffs.”

Yes, they will make the playoffs. They’re playing well over the course of the season. They should be able to make the playoffs.

— Randy Ragsdale (@SashaMania36) March 18, 2023

A third fan believed the team’s fate rested on the return of LeBron James, stating, “If Bron can come back within the next week then yes, if not then damn no.”

If Bron can come back within the next week yes, if not then he’s getting close, Adisney isn’t taking them anywhere

— Seven (@DepressedSteelo) March 18, 2023

Meanwhile, another fan was cautiously optimistic, predicting the Lakers would make the play-in spots but would falter before making the playoffs.

They do the postseason, the play-in. But no further.

— Alan S. (@alstan20) March 18, 2023

The Lakers’ recent loss to the Mavericks was particularly painful as they gambled away a hard-earned lead in the closing moments, with Anthony Davis making a series of costly errors. Lakers legend James Worthy called it their worst loss of the year and it was hard to argue with him. In clutch situations like these, your star players have to step up and deliver, but Davis let his team down when it mattered most.

How did Anthony Davis deal with the situation?

After the game, Davis admitted his mistakes and responsibility taken for the loss. He conceded that his foul on Maxi Kleber and subsequent missed free throw were crucial mistakes that cost them the game.

Davis also stressed the importance of improving free-throw shooting, which has been an ongoing problem for the team this season and has cost them big bucks in multiple games.

With LeBron still sidelined, the pressure is now squarely on Davis to lead the Lakers through this difficult stretch. He has shown brilliance in LeBron’s absence, averaging an impressive 27.7 points, 14.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 0.9 steals and 2.2 blocks per game in 17 appearances.

Fan criticism may be harsh, but it’s part of the territory of being a star player in the NBA. If Anthony Davis can stay focused and reach his full potential, maybe he can silence his doubters and lead the Lakers to glory.