LeBron James has tipped his teammate Anthony Davis to be in the MVP conversation after weeks of dominant performances.
The Lakers have now won eight of their last 10 games and have vaulted themselves into playoff contention, mostly thanks to Davis playing at an elite level.
Davis has scored 99 points in his last two outings, with 44 against the Milwaukee Bucks before dropping 55 on the Washington Wizards on Sunday - the most scored by a Lakers player in a two game period since Bryant did the same in 2007. These two performances also saw him become the first Lakers player to score at least 40 points and have at least 10 rebounds in consecutive games since O’Neal did so in 2000.
The season had been an absolute disaster for the Lakers just two weeks ago, but now seems to be on track to somewhat successful, and if Davis continues to play at this level, they'll be in contention for a playoff run, whilst he could just win the MVP for the first time.
Currently, Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum and Dallas Mavericks wonderkid Luka Doncic are believed to be leading the way for the award. However, Davis is quietly averaging more points and rebounds (28 & 13) than Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo did in his first MVP season.
And his teammate James has stated that he should be recognised as a candidate for the main individual award. James said: "He's been unbelievable, man. On both sides of the floor. I mean, playing like the MVP of this league. Just straight dominance."
Lakers starting guard Patrick Beverley backed James' comments, stating: "When you're talking about people in the MVP race or category, [Davis] should be up there, for sure".
Just last month, Davis was the topic of trade talks away from the Lakers. After giving up multiple first round picks to acquire him, he and James carried the Lakers to their first NBA title in 10 years when they win a ring in 2020.
Since then though, two missed playoffs are on the record, with this season looking to go the same route. Fast forward a few weeks, and the idea to trade Davis now seems incomprehensible.
For the player himself, he seemingly never wanted to leave the Lakers, and whilst he's happy to be involved in MVP talks, he's concentrated on team success first.
Davis said: "I put the team first over any individual awards or accolades that come with it. So, if we continue to do what we do and win basketball games, the rest will take care of itself."
