Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis declined a four-year, $146 million max extension on Tuesday, according to Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports.
Yahoo Sources: Los Angeles Lakers offered Anthony Davis a max contract extension this morning, but they were informed he would be bypassing in favor of entering free-agency. https://t.co/9Ce2A4ePbI pic.twitter.com/ODta1H40Zi
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) January 7, 2020
Davis declined the extension offer because he wants to focus on this season. Salary cap implications can also be cited. He has a $28.7 million player option for the 2020-21 season, but is expected to decline that. Now, Davis is eligible to receive a five-year, $202 million max contract next summer.
Last year, Davis had the New York Knicks on his list of possible destinations when he requested a trade. On Tuesday, he said that he’s over the past and wants to focus on the Lakers.
“[Going to the Knicks] was something I thought about in the past,” Davis said. “I’m kind of over that whole situation. Not just the Knicks but the entire past. Really just trying to get here and focused on the Lakers.”
Davis will become an unrestricted free agent in July. However, he is expected to stay with the Lakers. Davis staying with the Lakers is a good thing.
This season, Davis is averaging 27.7 points, 9.5 rebounds, 2.6 blocks, and 1.5 steals. He is becoming a candidate for MVP and is the favorite for Defensive Player of the Year.
Davis has helped the Lakers to a 29-7 record. The Lakers are No. 1 in the Western Conference and have a four-game advantage over the top spot. The Lakers also have the NBA’s second-best record behind the Milwaukee Bucks, who are 32-6.
Los Angeles has a very good shot at winning a championship this year.
With the Lakers having lots of success, it’s hard to see Davis leaving after one season in Los Angeles. He can win championships with the Lakers and he and LeBron James can continue being the power duo that they have become. The Lakers were the first team on Davis’s list when he requested a trade, so why would he leave?
Right now, it would take something unforeseen to happen for Davis to not be with the Lakers next season.
