Anthony Davis of the Lakers makes a daring claim regarding Defensive Player of the Year.
Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis made a bold statement about never having won the Defensive Player of the Year award in the NBA, despite his stellar defensive track record
Anthony Davis has started the NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers in dominant form, quickly entering conversations for the league’s MVP award. Yet, the Lakers’ big man remains baffled by his lack of recognition as a Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) winner throughout his career.
It’s surprising that Davis, one of the most versatile defenders in NBA history, has never received the honor. After all, he has led the league in blocked shots three times (2014, 2015, and 2018) and holds the second-most career blocks among active players.
“I couldn’t even tell you,” Davis told Melissa Rohlin of FOX Sports when asked why he hasn’t won the DPOY award. “I think the goal post just moves sometimes. Some guys throughout the years have been awarded Defensive Player of the Year because they had the most blocks in a season
I’ve done that a couple of times and haven’t gotten it,” Davis added. “Or is it about team defense? Or is it about individual defense and what numbers do you have on the defensive end?”
While the lack of a DPOY award still lingers in his mind, Davis clarified that he’s moved past it. Instead, his focus is on excelling defensively and, more importantly, winning championships with the Lakers
There’s nothing that I can’t do defensively,”Davis told FOX Sports. “I can switch one-through-five. I’m one of the best at guarding pick-and-rolls, an elite rim protector. Whatever you need me to do defensively, I can do. I honestly just stopped caring about it.”