Anthony Davis switching from Kobe’s to LeBron’s seemingly flips “Street Clothes” narrative

Anthony Davis was famously dubbed "Street Clothes" due to his frequent injuries and game absences. However, he has turned the narrative around with his improved availability, leading some to speculate whether his change in footwear has contributed to his better durability.

On Tuesday, he played 52 minutes, the most by a Laker since Kobe Bryant, in a double-overtime victory against the Milwaukee Bucks. Davis poured in 34 points, 23 rebounds and four assists.

Although Anthony Davis was not available for Wednesday's game against the Memphis Grizzlies, fans have observed his increased availability. One fan credited Davis' durability improvement to his switch from Kobe shoes to LeBron shoes.

According to another (NBAStatGuy_), 62 players have worn the LeBron 21s in-game this season. Anthony Davis stands out, having worn the XXI's 67 times this season, after sporting the LeBron 20s last season.

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“I don't think it is a coincidence that he is healthier than ever after switching from Kobes, a shoe designed for a guard,” the user said.

Before missing Wednesday's game against Memphis, Anthony Davis had played 96 of his last 100 games.

This season, he has played 68 games, tied for the second-most in a season in his career, matching his total from the 2014-15 season. His career-high is 75 games, achieved in consecutive seasons from 2016 to 2018.

Davis has played his fewest games per season over the last three years: 36 games in 2020-21, 40 in 2021-22 and 56 in 2022-23.

Darvin Ham praises Anthony Davis for being the ‘captain’ of LA’s defense

After the Lakers’ gritty victory over the Bucks, Lakers coach Darvin Ham said that Anthony Davis takes pride in leading the defense.

Davis is leading the team in rebounds (12.6), blocks (2.4), steals (1.2) and minutes per game (35.9).

“He’s done it time and time again, man,” Ham said. “Even him going through some extreme pain. Still making himself available for his team. He takes great pride in being the captain of our defense.”

Davis is a big reason the Lakers have been performing well recently, going 7-3 in their last 10 games. They hold the ninth spot in the Western Conference, with a 41-32 record.

According to Tankathon, they have the seventh easiest remaining schedule for the season. They face the Indiana Pacers, Brooklyn Nets, Toronto Raptors and the Washington Wizards in their next four games.