For the past few seasons, Anthony Davis had been heralded as the next NBA superstar, in the same vein as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, et al. But injuries have hampered his development at every turn. After making his inaugural postseason appearance in 2015, Davis and the Pelicans took a step back last year. Now ostensibly healthy going into next season, Davis is hoping to get his team back into the playoff hunt.
He’d spent the summer recovering from both a torn labrum and a knee injury that required surgery, but according to John Reid of NOLA.com, he was back in full swing when training camp officially opened on Saturday. Afterward, Davis said he’s feeling better than ever:
”I feel great and I’m just happy to be out there,” Davis said. ”I love the game so much that it started to be frustrating when I couldn’t play or they pull you out. The main goal is to be ready for October 26 (opener against Denver).
”Right now, I think I’m heading in the right direction toward getting there. Today everything felt great. I feel like I’m more explosive than what I was and more powerful.”
That’s a scary proposition as Davis’ overall athleticism has always been off the charts. The Pelicans will need him fully healthy and playing at a truly elite level if they want to battle for a playoff spot in the overcrowded West next spring.
(NOLA.com)
