Anthony Davis expressed doubt that anyone will surpass LeBron James’ monumental scoring record of 40,000 career points. While acknowledging the extraordinary shooting prowess of players like Stephen Curry, Davis emphasized the challenge posed by James’ ongoing career and the likelihood of his point total continuing to increase.
“You think about, you gotta be a young guy and you would think possibly Steph where he shoots the ball, but it’s not. And it’s just tough because he’s not finished playing so it’s only going to increase and you know that gap is only gonna get bigger and bigger.”
“So Now just telling him in the locker room like he might have to stop breaking records because we always lose on any time you break a record.”
“And he went to 8 straight finals, you know, which helps you play longer in the postseason. You’re gonna keep scoring and then for him being a number one option on his teams, what he’s able to do to score. But as of right now, I don’t see anybody breaking his record.”
AD on LeBron James reaching the 40K milestone: “As of right now, I don’t see anybody breaking his record.” pic.twitter.com/ble5Rncy6v
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) March 3, 2024
Davis highlighted James’ longevity, postseason success, and role as a primary scorer throughout his career as factors contributing to the seemingly insurmountable gap between him and potential challengers. With James still actively playing and consistently adding to his point total, Davis suggested that the gap would only widen further over time.
Reflecting on James’ latest milestone, achieved during the Lakers’ loss to the Denver Nuggets, Davis jokingly remarked on the team’s unfortunate trend of losing games when James sets records. Despite the bittersweet nature of the defeat, Davis acknowledged the significance of James’ accomplishment and the impact it has on solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
James’ unprecedented achievement of reaching 40,000 career points underscores his remarkable consistency, skill, and longevity in the league. As he continues to rewrite the record books, James remains focused on team success while acknowledging the significance of each milestone along the way.
While Davis expressed skepticism about the possibility of anyone surpassing James’ scoring record, he also recognized the unpredictable nature of sports and the potential for future players to make their mark in the league. However, for now, James stands alone atop the all-time scoring list, leaving a legacy that may endure for generations to come.
Stephen A. Smith Rips Anthony Davis Apart For Not Showing Up
Stephen A. Smith did not mince words when expressing his disappointment with the Los Angeles Lakers’ performance on LeBron James’ historic night. Following James’ groundbreaking achievement of becoming the first player in NBA history to score 40,000 regular-season points, the Lakers suffered a disheartening loss to the Denver Nuggets.
“I’m quite disgusted. Opening night the Lakers open the season, they lose to the Nuggets. The night Kobe statue was revealed, they lose that night. Tonight, LeBron James passes 40,000 points, they lose that game.”
Smith expressed his frustration with the Lakers’ inability to seize significant moments, citing previous losses on opening night and during the unveiling of Kobe Bryant’s statue. He lambasted the team for their consistent failure to deliver in crucial matchups.
“It seems like the big moments the Lakers don’t measure up to. You can’t have Nikola Jokic dropping 35 and Anthony Davis have 17.”
"I'm quite disgusted [in the Lakers]… The night Kobe [Bryant's] statue was revealed, they lost. LeBron James passes 40,000 points, they lose that game… It seems like the big moments the Lakers don't measure up to."
— Stephen A. Smith🗣️
(via @ESPNNBA)pic.twitter.com/aVKkVAxwCe
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 3, 2024
Particularly critical of Anthony Davis, Smith pointed out the stark difference between Davis’ performance and that of his counterpart, Nikola Jokic. While Jokic dominated with 35 points, Davis only managed to contribute 17. Smith emphasized that for a team with championship aspirations, Davis, as a superstar talent, must step up and provide more on such occasions.
Smith highlighted the need for Davis to match or at least come close to Jokic’s numbers, stressing that his performance could significantly impact the outcome of the game. Despite LeBron James’ commendable effort of scoring 26 points and the contributions of other starters, Smith deemed Davis’ performance insufficient, especially considering the magnitude of the moment.
Moreover, Smith questioned the Lakers’ mentality in big games, pointing out their losses in pivotal matchups throughout the season. He underscored the importance of Davis rising to the occasion, particularly against formidable opponents like Jokic and the Nuggets, if the Lakers hope to contend for a championship.
In conclusion, Smith’s critique of the Lakers’ performance centered on Anthony Davis’ underwhelming contribution on a historic night for LeBron James. He emphasized the need for Davis to elevate his game and deliver more consistent performances in pivotal matchups, echoing the sentiments of Lakers fans and NBA enthusiasts alike.