The Los Angeles Lakers are fresh off a strong 2022-23 season. They feature a strong core of players and expect to find more success during the 2023-24 campaign. Anthony Davis will play a key role alongside LeBron James on LA's roster. Austin Reaves, who re-signed with the Lakers during the offseason, commented on one area of Davis' game that tends to get overlooked.

“He's obviously a good person to have on your team,” Reaves said of Davis on the All The Smoke podcast, via SHOWTIME Basketball. “Especially defensively, I don't think [Anthony Davis] gets enough credit for what he does for us as guards, knowing you have him as a rim protector you can be more physical, more aggressive… He's arguably right behind [LeBron James] as the most skilled player I've ever seen.”

That is quite the statement from Reaves. AD has certainly struggled with health concerns, but is a tremendous player when on the court. He's someone the Lakers are building around.

Anthony Davis, Lakers heading into 2023-24

The Lakers have championship aspirations heading into the 2023-24 season. LA added depth in free agency which will benefit Davis and LeBron without question. Last year, the team found ways to win, but it wouldn't be surprising to see a more consistent approach for Los Angeles throughout the upcoming season.

Reaves' presence will also be important. He emerged as a reliable option and the Lakers believe he can be an X-Factor of sorts moving forward.

In the end, though, the Lakers will go as far as Anthony Davis takes them. Yes, LeBron is arguably the greatest player ever. However, he's in his late 30's and LA needs a younger superstar like AD to lead the charge.