'Unbelievable Opportunity For Me': Lakers Introduce Anthony Davis At Press Conference
EL SEGUNDO (CBSLA) — To quote LeBron James, "AD is on da way."
James was on hand when the Lakers formally introduced his new teammate Saturday at a noon press conference at the UCLA Health Training Center.
Anthony Davis — a six-time All-Star, three-time First Team All-NBA and three-time All-Defensive selection — will bring his dynamic, up-tempo, above-the-rim play to Hollywood alongside the 34-year-old James, a three-time NBA champion and Finals regular.
During the Saturday afternoon conference, CBSLA's Jim Hill asked Davis what has been the most difficult part of the trade process.
"I think the most difficult part for me was just not knowing...the unknown. It was whether I get traded or whether I go back to New Orleans," said Davis. "Obviously, it was tough for me to leave the city I've been playing for for seven years, but I think it was right for me and my time."
Davis is a 26-year-old 6-foot-10 forward who also plays center, shoots with range, runs the floor, blocks shots and can handle the ball. He has averaged 23.7 points, 10.5 rebounds and 2.4 blocks during his career. But in seven seasons in New Orleans, his Pelicans teams made the playoffs just twice and won one series against Portland two seasons ago.
Davis addressed how he was excited to be in L.A. saying, "Anytime the Lakers came to New Orleans it was like all Lakers [fans]. I know their fan base is crazy and travels heavy so I'm excited about that. The only thing I can't get used to is this traffic."
It was previously reported James would give the number 23 to Davis, but on Friday Davis posted a photo to his Instagram account in a number 3 Lakers jersey with the caption, "Taking the number all the way back to elementary school! #3"
The New Orleans Pelicans traded Davis to the Lakers for Lonzo Ball, Josh Hart, Brandon Ingram, the draft rights to De'Andre Hunter, two first round picks, a first-round pick swap right and cash.
Saturday's press conference was streamed live on Lakers.com