Los Angeles Lakers’ Secret Gem – Ed Davis

By Guest Writer
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Updated: November 6, 2014

Portland Trail Blazers’ C.J. McCollum, left, goes up for a basket as Los Angeles Lakers’ Ed Davis defends during the second half of a preseason NBA basketball game Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2014, in Ontario, Calif. The Lakers won 94-86. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

The biggest surprise this season for the Los Angeles Lakers in fact is secret gem Ed Davis. Throughout five

games Ed Davis has made 22 of his 33 shot attempts. He is shooting 67% from the floor. His smooth touch has made him the most efficient player for the Lakers thus far.

The Lakers were not the topic of discussion this offseason with the likes of LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Bosh’s decisions looming. After failing to get any of these players, the Lakers quietly went after Ed Davis, the former Tarheel. He was drafted with the 13th pick of the 2010 draft to the Toronto Raptors.

After things didn’t work out in Toronto, Davis was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies where he played a backup role to Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol.

Leaving Memphis, after his contract was up two years later, he explored other NBA options. His next opportunity would come with the Lakers.

The Los Angeles Lakers got Ed Davis in the offseason for a bargain price. Ed Davis could arguably be the biggest steal in FA as far as PF are concerned.

The Lakers are known to develop big men in the NBA. Prime examples? Andrew Bynum (pre-injury), Lamar Odom, Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, and Shaq.; their reputation has evolved in the developmental department. No, the Lakers are not hoping Davis turns into the names listed above, but Mitch Kupchak hopes that Davis will grow as a player during this rebuilding state of the Lakers. Ed Davis is making an impact on the court with his defense. His energy on the court has brought more life to the much needed Los Angeles Lakers defense. If his strong play continues the Lakers are sure to try and retain him once he enters free agency this summer.

This season will be full of surprises for the Lakeshow if they can stay healthy. The Lakers are in for a rough season, but with times like this unproven players are given a chance to prove themselves. Last season it was Jodie Meeks, this year Ed Davis could have a breakout year. We have missed a shot blocking presence, and it’s been a long time since the word “Defense” has been implemented in the Lakers vocabulary. Ed Davis is a huge key for the Los Angeles Lakers future if they look to rebuild around big men and continue to try and implement defense in their culture. Ed Davis has made a huge impact for the Los Angeles Lakers and will keep being an impact so long if he stays healthy all year around.

Laker fans what do you think about Ed Davis’ season so far? Do you want him to come back next season? Comment below your feedback!