Anthony Davis: Stats, Highlights, And Impact In 2017-18

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into an unforgettable season for one of the NBA's true superstars: Anthony Davis in 2017-18. This was a season where AD truly cemented his place among the league's elite, showcasing a blend of offensive firepower and defensive dominance that few could match. If you're an NBA fanatic or just love watching greatness unfold, buckle up – we're about to break down everything that made Anthony Davis's 2017-18 season so special.

The Statistical Brilliance of Anthony Davis in 2017-18

In the 2017-18 NBA season, Anthony Davis wasn't just good; he was statistically exceptional. His numbers read like a video game cheat code, leaving fans and analysts alike in awe of his consistent brilliance. First off, let's talk about his scoring. AD averaged a whopping 28.1 points per game, which placed him among the top scorers in the league. But it wasn't just the volume of points; it was how he scored them. Davis displayed an array of offensive skills, from powerful drives to the basket and graceful post moves to a reliable mid-range jumper and an increasingly confident three-point shot. This versatility made him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses, who simply couldn't key in on one aspect of his game.

Beyond scoring, Davis was a force on the boards, averaging 11.1 rebounds per game. His combination of size, athleticism, and sheer determination allowed him to consistently outwork opponents for crucial rebounds on both ends of the floor. Defensively, Davis was arguably even more impactful. He averaged an incredible 2.6 blocks per game, showcasing his elite rim protection skills. Opponents thought twice before driving into the paint against the Pelicans, knowing that AD was lurking, ready to swat their shot into the stands. But his defensive impact extended beyond just blocks. Davis also averaged 1.5 steals per game, demonstrating his ability to anticipate passes and disrupt opposing offenses. These steals often led to fast-break opportunities for the Pelicans, further fueling their attack.

To put these stats into context, consider this: Davis was one of only a handful of players in the league to average at least 28 points, 11 rebounds, 2.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game. This exclusive club includes some of the greatest players in NBA history, highlighting just how dominant Davis was on both ends of the court during the 2017-18 season. Moreover, his efficiency was remarkable. Davis shot over 53% from the field, demonstrating his ability to score effectively without forcing shots. He also shot a respectable 34% from three-point range, showing his commitment to expanding his offensive game. These stats paint a picture of a player who was not only incredibly talented but also incredibly efficient and impactful. Anthony Davis's statistical brilliance in 2017-18 was a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Key Highlights and Memorable Games

The 2017-18 season wasn't just about numbers for Anthony Davis; it was also about memorable moments and signature games that etched his name into NBA history. One game that immediately springs to mind is his performance against the Boston Celtics on February 6, 2018. In that game, Davis exploded for a career-high 45 points, showcasing his full offensive arsenal against one of the league's top defensive teams. He hit shots from all over the court, drove to the basket with force, and dominated the paint, leaving Celtics defenders helpless. But it wasn't just the scoring that was impressive; Davis also grabbed 17 rebounds and blocked 5 shots, demonstrating his all-around dominance.

Another standout performance came against the Phoenix Suns on March 2, 2018. In that game, Davis scored 33 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, and blocked 6 shots, leading the Pelicans to a convincing victory. But what made this game particularly memorable was his defensive intensity. Davis was a one-man wrecking crew on the defensive end, disrupting shots, forcing turnovers, and generally making life miserable for Suns players. His presence in the paint was so imposing that the Suns struggled to score inside, and their offense was completely stifled.

Beyond individual games, there were also several key highlights throughout the season that showcased Davis's incredible athleticism and skill. One highlight that went viral was his alley-oop dunk against the Los Angeles Lakers. Davis soared through the air, caught a lob pass with one hand, and slammed it home with thunderous force, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Another highlight was his game-winning block against the Portland Trail Blazers. With the game on the line, Davis rose up and swatted away Damian Lillard's potential game-winning shot, securing a crucial victory for the Pelicans.

These key highlights and memorable games not only demonstrated Davis's individual brilliance but also his ability to rise to the occasion in crucial moments. He was a player who thrived under pressure and consistently delivered when his team needed him most. Anthony Davis's 2017-18 season was filled with unforgettable moments that will be remembered by NBA fans for years to come. These moments cemented his legacy as one of the game's all-time greats and solidified his place among the league's elite.

Impact on the New Orleans Pelicans

Anthony Davis's impact on the New Orleans Pelicans during the 2017-18 season was nothing short of transformative. He wasn't just a star player; he was the heart and soul of the team, leading them to their first playoff appearance in three years and injecting a sense of hope and excitement into the franchise. Before the season, the Pelicans were seen as a team on the fringes of the playoff picture, with questions about their chemistry and ability to compete in the tough Western Conference. But with Davis leading the way, they defied expectations and established themselves as a force to be reckoned with.

Davis's presence on the court had a profound impact on the Pelicans' offense. His ability to score in a variety of ways opened up opportunities for his teammates, creating space and driving lanes that weren't there before. Opposing defenses were forced to focus so much attention on Davis that it freed up other players to score, making the Pelicans a much more dangerous offensive team. His pick-and-roll chemistry with Rajon Rondo was particularly effective, as the two players consistently found ways to exploit defensive mismatches and create scoring opportunities.

Defensively, Davis was equally impactful. His rim protection skills made the Pelicans a much tougher team to score against, and his ability to block shots and alter shots intimidated opponents. He was also a vocal leader on defense, communicating with his teammates and ensuring that everyone was on the same page. His presence in the paint allowed the Pelicans' perimeter defenders to be more aggressive, knowing that they had Davis backing them up.

Beyond his on-court contributions, Davis also had a significant impact on the Pelicans' team culture. He was a respected leader in the locker room, setting an example with his hard work, dedication, and positive attitude. He also embraced the city of New Orleans and became a beloved figure among Pelicans fans. His commitment to the community and his genuine enthusiasm for the team made him a role model for his teammates and a source of pride for the city.

In conclusion, Anthony Davis's impact on the New Orleans Pelicans during the 2017-18 season was immeasurable. He transformed the team into a playoff contender, elevated the play of his teammates, and became a beloved figure in the city of New Orleans. His leadership, both on and off the court, was instrumental in the Pelicans' success, and his legacy as one of the greatest players in franchise history is secure.

Comparisons to Other NBA Greats

When you watch Anthony Davis play, especially during that stellar 2017-18 season, you can't help but draw comparisons to some of the NBA's all-time greats. His unique combination of size, skill, and athleticism is reminiscent of players like Kevin Garnett, Tim Duncan, and even a young Hakeem Olajuwon. Like Garnett, Davis possesses a fiery competitiveness and a relentless motor that drives him to excel on both ends of the court. He plays with a passion and intensity that is contagious, inspiring his teammates to raise their level of play. And like Garnett, Davis is a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses in a variety of ways.

Similar to Duncan, Davis has a quiet demeanor and a fundamentally sound game that allows him to consistently produce at a high level. He doesn't rely on flashy moves or highlight-reel plays; instead, he focuses on executing the fundamentals and making smart decisions. His footwork in the post is impeccable, his jump shot is reliable, and his defensive positioning is always on point. And like Duncan, Davis is a selfless player who is always willing to do whatever it takes to help his team win.

In terms of his athleticism and shot-blocking ability, Davis draws comparisons to Olajuwon. Like "The Dream," Davis is an incredibly agile and explosive player who can leap out of the gym and swat shots with ease. His timing and instincts as a shot-blocker are exceptional, and his presence in the paint deters opponents from even attempting to score. And like Olajuwon, Davis has a surprisingly polished offensive game, with a variety of post moves and a developing jump shot.

However, it's important to note that Davis is also a unique player in his own right. He has a skill set and athleticism that is unlike any other player in NBA history. His ability to score from anywhere on the court, combined with his elite rim protection skills, makes him a truly special talent. And at just 24 years old during the 2017-18 season, Davis was only scratching the surface of his potential. Many analysts believed that he had the potential to become one of the greatest players of all time.

While comparisons to other NBA greats are inevitable, it's clear that Anthony Davis is a once-in-a-generation talent who is destined for greatness. His combination of size, skill, athleticism, and intelligence is unmatched, and his impact on the game of basketball will be felt for years to come.

What Made 2017-18 Special For Anthony Davis?

The 2017-18 season was arguably a defining moment in Anthony Davis's career. It was a season where he not only showcased his incredible talent but also demonstrated his leadership and ability to carry a team to new heights. Several factors contributed to his success during that season, including improved health, a supportive coaching staff, and the arrival of key teammates.

One of the biggest factors was Davis's improved health. In previous seasons, he had been plagued by injuries that limited his playing time and hindered his performance. But in 2017-18, Davis was able to stay relatively healthy, allowing him to play more games and get into a consistent rhythm. This allowed him to build momentum throughout the season and reach his full potential.

The arrival of Rajon Rondo also played a crucial role in Davis's success. Rondo's playmaking ability and basketball IQ perfectly complemented Davis's scoring prowess. Rondo consistently found Davis in scoring positions, setting him up for easy baskets and allowing him to showcase his offensive skills. Their pick-and-roll chemistry was particularly effective, as they consistently exploited defensive mismatches and created scoring opportunities.

Alvin Gentry's coaching also played a significant role in Davis's development. Gentry empowered Davis to take on a leadership role and gave him the freedom to showcase his full range of skills. He also implemented a system that played to Davis's strengths, utilizing his versatility and athleticism to create mismatches and exploit defensive weaknesses.

But perhaps the most important factor in Davis's success was his own unwavering determination and work ethic. He spent countless hours in the gym, honing his skills and refining his game. He was also a tireless worker on defense, constantly studying film and looking for ways to improve his positioning and anticipation. His dedication to his craft was evident in his performance on the court, as he consistently outworked and outplayed his opponents.

In conclusion, the 2017-18 season was a perfect storm of factors that allowed Anthony Davis to reach new heights. Improved health, a supportive coaching staff, the arrival of key teammates, and his own unwavering determination all contributed to his success. It was a season that will be remembered as a defining moment in his career and a testament to his incredible talent and potential.

The Aftermath and What It Signified

The aftermath of Anthony Davis's stellar 2017-18 season was filled with both excitement and uncertainty. While Pelicans fans were thrilled with their team's playoff appearance and Davis's individual success, there were also questions about the team's long-term future and Davis's commitment to the franchise. The season had raised expectations in New Orleans, and the pressure was on the Pelicans to build a championship-caliber team around Davis.

One of the biggest storylines following the season was Davis's impending free agency. He was set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2020, and there was speculation that he might consider leaving New Orleans to join a team with a better chance of winning a championship. This put pressure on the Pelicans front office to make moves to improve the team and convince Davis to stay.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Davis remained committed to the Pelicans in the short term. He continued to play at a high level and lead the team, but it was clear that he was also keeping an eye on the team's progress and evaluating his options. The Pelicans made several attempts to improve the team around Davis, but they were ultimately unsuccessful in building a true championship contender.

Ultimately, Davis requested a trade from the Pelicans in January 2019, signaling the end of an era in New Orleans. While his departure was disappointing for Pelicans fans, it was also a recognition of his immense talent and ambition. Davis wanted to play for a team that had a legitimate chance of winning a championship, and he felt that he could not achieve that goal in New Orleans.

In the end, Anthony Davis's 2017-18 season will be remembered as a bittersweet moment in Pelicans history. It was a season of incredible individual success and team achievement, but it also marked the beginning of the end of Davis's tenure in New Orleans. The season signified the potential that Davis possessed, but it also highlighted the challenges of building a championship team in a small market. Anthony Davis showed the world he was ready to be the best. And the rest, as they say, is history.