For a number of years, Anthony Davis has been criticized by fans, NBA analysts, and the media for being soft. Many bashed him for his inability to keep himself healthy and his lack of willingness to dominate on both ends of the court. But Davis put a sock in the mouth of his doubters by dominating Game 1 of the Western Conference Semis against the Golden State Warriors. Moreover, the 30-year-old became the first Laker since Shaquille O’Neal to record his monster stat line in Game 1.

The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Dubs in the highly anticipated game by 117-112. Coming into the game, all focus was on Stephen Curry and LeBron James to deliver another classic Playoff series. However, Davis stole the spotlight from both of them with his memorable performance.

Anthony Davis Joins Shaquille O’Neal in a historic feat

The history of the LA Lakers is rich for its big men dominating the game. The Lakers have had many great bigs; from Wilt Chamberlain, Elgin Baylor, and Kareem Abdul Jabbar to Shaquille O’Neal, Pau Gasol, and Anthony Davis. These stars have created many records and reached great heights, inspiring the upcoming generation. But when it comes to pure dominance on the court, Shaquille O’Neal tops the list.

Shaq was the best player on the roster, winning 3 NBA championships and 3 NBA Finals MVPs. Anthony Davis, with his 30-point-23 rebound double-double, joined the company of Shaq and the other great Laker big men. He became the first Laker since Shaq, who recorded 31-21 against the ‘Jail-Blazers’ back in 2000, to drop a 30-20 game. Elgin Baylor holds the record for the highest 30-20 game, for his 61-22 game back in 1962, a tough record to break.?

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Before heading to this series, the Lakers were considered as the underdogs. The defending champions, led by superstar Steph Curry, showed their offensive arsenal in a close game. But with Anthony Davis’ dominant plays and the defensive efforts of the Lakers, they announced that they are here to become champions.

Davis’ performance leaves fans mesmerized

Davis scored 30 points, grabbed 23 rebounds dishing out 5 assists with 4 crucial blocks. The center was well supported by the rest of the team as LeBron James recorded 22 points and 11 rebounds with 4 assists and 3 blocks. James in the previous season told AD that this was his team and Davis showed up when it mattered the most. Fans were full of praise for AD after his dominating performance.

One fan commented, “He’s SHAQ!”

Another fan wrote, “Dude has really been playing his best lately“.

Here are some more reactions to AD’s performance:

“This is how you knw this year might be rigged for Lebron James to win!”

“AD is not Sabonis lmao Looney will have to guard”

“Shows the Lakers faked the regular season. AD barely played in the regular season but now playoffs start he’s completely fine.”

“When healthy AD is arguably the best big man in basketball”

The Lakers have now snatched the home-court advantage from the Warriors. They will be hoping to head back to LA with a comfortable 2-0 lead. What do you think about AD’s potential in this series? Let us know in the comments below.

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