Anthony Davis Could Surpass LeBron James as All-Star Starter in 2024
Anthony Davis is on the brink of a significant achievement that could symbolize a changing of the guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. With the release of the first wave of 2024-25 NBA All-Star Game fan voting, Davis is positioned to potentially overtake his teammate and NBA legend LeBron James for a starting spot. This shift in the Lakers’ hierarchy could mark a pivotal moment in the franchise’s history and the league’s broader narrative.
Fan Voting Breakdown
According to the fan voting results shared by Shams Charania of ESPN, Davis currently holds the fourth spot among Western Conference frontcourt players with 999,540 votes. Leading the category are three former league MVPs:
- Nikola Jokic (1,422,121 votes) of the Denver Nuggets.
- Kevin Durant (1,268,799 votes) of the Phoenix Suns.
- LeBron James (1,167,661 votes), Davis’ Lakers teammate.
Interestingly, James’ position at third represents a notable dip from his usual standing among the top two vote-getters in most years. At age 40, James remains a vital contributor to the Lakers but has experienced a slight decline in his offensive dominance. This shift has opened the door for Davis, who is just 168,000 votes shy of surpassing James.
If Davis overtakes James, it would be a monumental achievement. James, a 20-time All-Star, has never come off the bench in an All-Star Game, while Davis has started only three of his nine All-Star appearances.
Davis’ Stellar Season
This season, Davis is putting up All-Star-worthy numbers, demonstrating why he is in the conversation as one of the league’s premier big men. His averages include:
- 26.1 points per game with efficient shooting splits of .527/.324/.777.
- 11.6 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game.
- Elite defense with 2.0 blocks and 1.3 steals per game.
Davis has been instrumental in the Lakers’ 18-14 record, solidifying his role as the team’s centerpiece, especially as James transitions into a slightly reduced role.
Injury Concerns Loom for Davis
While Davis is making waves in the All-Star voting, his health remains a lingering concern. He is currently listed as doubtful for the Lakers’ upcoming game against the Portland Trail Blazers due to a left ankle sprain. The Lakers are already dealing with a thin frontcourt, with Jarred Vanderbilt and Christian Wood sidelined by injuries. If Davis is unavailable, Jaxson Hayes will likely step in as the primary big man against Portland’s formidable centers.
Fortunately for the Lakers, the Trail Blazers (11-21) are struggling this season, and injuries to key players like Jerami Grant and Matisse Thybulle may limit their competitiveness.
Symbolic Shift for the Lakers
If Davis secures the starting All-Star spot over James, it would signify a passing of the torch within the Lakers organization. For over two decades, James has been the NBA’s face, but Davis’ ascent could mark a new chapter for Los Angeles.
As Davis inches closer to surpassing James in fan votes, the spotlight grows brighter on the Lakers’ evolving hierarchy. A starting All-Star nod would not only validate Davis’ stellar season but also symbolize his growing prominence in the NBA. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as voting progresses, anticipating whether Davis can officially take the reins as the Lakers’ new leader on the biggest stage.
