Los Angeles Lakers: A New Era With Anthony Davis And LeBron James

Looks like the Los Angeles Lakers will be among the title favorites for the next few years. Just one day after the team and LeBron James agreed to a two-year, $85 million deal, the reigning champs announced they're signing Anthony Davis to a maximum contract. This major decision signals the Lakers' intent to maintain a strong competitive edge in the NBA.

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, Davis and the Lakers are finalizing a five-year, $190 million deal. The contract also includes an early termination option before the fifth year. It's crazy to think a $190 million contract could be a "bargain," but it might play out that way. Davis turned 27 this year and could have reasonably signed a similar deal to James, who will become a free agent in the 2022 offseason.

At that point, Davis would be 29 and could sign a max salary that started at 35% of the salary cap. Instead, he's signing for 30% of the salary cap. In essence, he's taking a pay cut for additional job security. This decision highlights his commitment to the team and the long-term vision the Lakers have for their roster.

Had he done a two-year deal, Davis could have re-signed with a starting salary of more than $40.5 million for the 2022-23 season. He'll make just under $38 million that season in this five-year deal. That's still plenty of money, but Davis is likely leaving an additional $10 to $15 million on the table from 2022 to 2025. There’s also no guarantee he’ll find a max deal when this contract is up. By then, he’ll be 32 years old. If his productivity drops a fair amount, he may not receive as extravagant of an offer.

Here's a look at how much Davis will make in each season:

• 2020-21: $32,742,000
• 2021-22: $35,361,360
• 2022-23: $37,980,720
• 2023-24: $40,600,080
• 2024-25 (with an early termination option): $43,219,440

The Lakers also gave themselves a bit of a cushion, too. Having Davis around for the long haul could help James or other free agents sign in the next couple of years. Now, Davis will work on bringing more titles to L.A. — and adding to his legacy in the process.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Anthony Davis
• Details of the Contract
• Impact on the Lakers
• Final Thoughts

Biography of Anthony Davis

Anthony Davis, born on March 11, 1993, in Chicago, Illinois, is an American professional basketball player. He is known for his exceptional skills, versatility, and dominance on the court. Standing at 6 feet 10 inches tall, Davis plays as a power forward and center.

Details of the Contract

The five-year, $190 million contract that Anthony Davis signed with the Lakers is a landmark deal. This contract not only reflects his value as a player but also the team's strategy for building a championship-caliber roster. Davis's decision to include an early termination option provides him with flexibility while ensuring his commitment to the franchise.

Impact on the Lakers

The signing of Anthony Davis is expected to have a significant impact on the Lakers. His presence on the team will not only bolster their defense but also enhance their offensive capabilities. Alongside LeBron James, the duo is poised to lead the Lakers to multiple playoff appearances and potential championships.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Los Angeles Lakers have secured a promising future with the signing of Anthony Davis. His commitment to the team and willingness to take a pay cut for job security illustrates his dedication to winning. As the Lakers aim for more championships, fans can look forward to an exciting era of basketball in Los Angeles.