Anthony Davis 2019 Stats: A Deep Dive

Let's break down Anthony Davis's stellar 2019 season. This was a pivotal year for AD, marking his last season with the New Orleans Pelicans before his blockbuster trade to the Los Angeles Lakers. For hoops fans, understanding Davis's performance during this period is crucial to appreciating his trajectory as one of the NBA's elite players. We're going to dive into his stats, analyze his impact on the court, and see how this season set the stage for his championship run with the Lakers.

Overview of Anthony Davis's 2018-2019 Season

The 2018-2019 season was a rollercoaster for Anthony Davis and the New Orleans Pelicans. Despite individual brilliance from Davis, the team struggled to find consistency and ultimately missed the playoffs. This season was filled with trade rumors and speculation surrounding Davis's future, adding another layer of complexity to his on-court performance. Despite the off-court distractions, Davis managed to put up some impressive numbers, showcasing his dominance on both ends of the floor. His performance during this season solidified his status as one of the league's premier talents, making him a highly sought-after commodity for contending teams. Let's get into the specifics, shall we?

Key Statistics

In the 2018-2019 season, Anthony Davis played 56 games for the New Orleans Pelicans. While his playing time was somewhat limited due to injuries and the aforementioned trade drama, when he was on the court, he was absolutely dominant. Here’s a quick look at some of his key stats:

• Points Per Game (PPG): 25.9
• Rebounds Per Game (RPG): 12.0
• Assists Per Game (APG): 3.9
• Blocks Per Game (BPG): 2.4
• Steals Per Game (SPG): 1.6
• Field Goal Percentage (FG%): 51.7%
• Three-Point Percentage (3P%): 33.1%
• Free Throw Percentage (FT%): 79.4%

These numbers paint a picture of a player who could score, rebound, pass, defend, and shoot with remarkable efficiency. Davis was a true two-way force, capable of impacting the game in numerous ways. His ability to score in the post, knock down mid-range jumpers, and even step out to hit three-pointers made him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses. Defensively, his shot-blocking and rebounding prowess made him an elite rim protector and a dominant presence on the glass.

Advanced Stats

Beyond the basic counting stats, Anthony Davis's advanced metrics further highlight his impact on the game. His Player Efficiency Rating (PER) of 30.8 was among the highest in the league, demonstrating his exceptional all-around performance. His True Shooting Percentage (TS%) of 59.7% showcased his efficiency as a scorer, taking into account his ability to convert both two-point and three-point attempts, as well as free throws. Davis also posted a Win Shares (WS) of 8.6, indicating his significant contribution to the Pelicans' wins during the season. These advanced stats provide a more comprehensive understanding of Davis's value and effectiveness on the court, solidifying his status as one of the NBA's most impactful players.

Anthony Davis's Impact on the Pelicans

Anthony Davis's impact on the New Orleans Pelicans during the 2018-2019 season was undeniable, even amidst the trade rumors and team struggles. As the team's undisputed leader and focal point, Davis carried a heavy load on both ends of the court. His presence alone elevated the Pelicans' competitiveness, making them a difficult matchup for opposing teams. Offensively, Davis was the primary scoring option, capable of creating his own shots and finishing with power and finesse. Defensively, he anchored the team's defense, deterring opponents from attacking the basket and providing crucial rim protection. Despite the team's overall struggles, Davis's individual brilliance shone through, showcasing his ability to dominate games and carry his team to victory. His impact extended beyond the box score, as he also served as a mentor and leader for the younger players on the roster, setting an example of professionalism and dedication. While the season ultimately ended in disappointment for the Pelicans, Davis's contributions were a testament to his talent and commitment to the team.

Offensive Prowess

On the offensive end, Anthony Davis was a scoring machine. His ability to score in a variety of ways made him incredibly difficult to guard. He could post up smaller defenders, drive past bigger ones, and knock down shots from beyond the arc. His versatility allowed the Pelicans to run their offense through him, creating opportunities for his teammates as well. Davis's offensive prowess not only made him a threat to score every time he touched the ball but also opened up the floor for his teammates, making the Pelicans a more dynamic and unpredictable offensive team. His ability to draw double teams created open looks for shooters, while his passing skills allowed him to find cutters and orchestrate the offense. In short, Davis was the engine that drove the Pelicans' offense, and his presence was essential to their success.

Defensive Dominance

Defensively, Anthony Davis was a game-changer. His length, athleticism, and timing made him one of the league's premier shot-blockers. He was also an excellent rebounder, vacuuming up misses on both ends of the court. Davis's defensive presence instilled fear in opponents, deterring them from attacking the basket and forcing them to settle for less efficient shots. His ability to guard multiple positions allowed the Pelicans to switch defensively, making them a more versatile and adaptable team. Davis's defensive dominance not only protected the rim but also sparked the team's transition offense, as his rebounds and blocks often led to fastbreak opportunities. In essence, Davis was the anchor of the Pelicans' defense, and his impact was felt throughout the entire team.

Trade Request and Its Impact

During the 2018-2019 season, Anthony Davis requested a trade from the New Orleans Pelicans, sending shockwaves throughout the NBA. This request came amidst growing frustration with the team's lack of success and Davis's desire to compete for a championship. The trade request had a significant impact on both Davis and the Pelicans, creating uncertainty and tension within the organization. Davis's on-court performance was affected by the off-court drama, as he faced increased scrutiny and pressure from fans and the media. The Pelicans, on the other hand, were forced to navigate a difficult situation, weighing their options and seeking the best possible return for their franchise player. The trade request ultimately led to a period of turmoil and transition for both Davis and the Pelicans, as they prepared for a future apart.

The Fallout

The fallout from Anthony Davis's trade request was far-reaching, impacting the Pelicans' season and the NBA landscape as a whole. The Pelicans struggled to maintain their focus and chemistry, as the trade rumors and speculation surrounding Davis's future created a cloud of uncertainty. Davis's playing time was also affected, as the team sought to protect his health and limit his exposure to potential injuries. The trade request also sparked a frenzy of interest from contending teams, all vying for the opportunity to acquire Davis's services. The Los Angeles Lakers emerged as the frontrunners, engaging in intense negotiations with the Pelicans in an attempt to strike a deal. The trade request ultimately reshaped the balance of power in the NBA, as teams positioned themselves to compete for championships with or without Davis on their roster.

The Trade That Changed Everything

Eventually, Anthony Davis was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in the offseason, marking the end of his tenure with the Pelicans. The trade sent a package of players and draft picks to New Orleans, including Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, and Josh Hart. This move paired Davis with LeBron James, forming one of the most formidable duos in the league. The acquisition of Davis immediately elevated the Lakers into championship contenders, as they sought to return to prominence after several years of struggles. The trade also signaled a new era for the Pelicans, as they embarked on a rebuilding process centered around their newly acquired assets. The trade of Anthony Davis had a transformative impact on both the Lakers and the Pelicans, setting the stage for their respective futures.

Conclusion

Anthony Davis's 2019 season was a complex and pivotal year in his career. Despite the off-court drama and team struggles, he showcased his exceptional talent and solidified his status as one of the NBA's elite players. His statistical dominance, combined with his impact on both ends of the court, made him a force to be reckoned with. While his time with the Pelicans ultimately came to an end, his contributions to the team were undeniable. The 2019 season served as a springboard for Davis, propelling him to a championship run with the Los Angeles Lakers and solidifying his legacy as one of the game's greatest players. This year was definitely one for the books, and understanding the context and stats helps us appreciate AD's journey even more!