Lakers coach Frank Vogel says Lakers’ Anthony Davis looks physically ‘imposing’ as training camp approaches

It is prudent not to read too much out of season practice. Whether it’s a conveniently edited video of a pickup game or a photo of turgid biceps lifting what looks like a metric ton, NBA players love to let their fans know which point they worked hard during the offseason. Social media posts tend to get people talking during the slow summer news cycle, but we never know if the activity will result in court until we see them in action.

That being said, it’s certainly noticeable when a player’s own coach comments on a physical transformation. In a recent appearance on Spectrum SportsNets ‘Lakeshow’ Podcast, Los Angeles Lakers head coach Frank Vogel absolutely praised the physique of big man All-Star Anthony Davis.

“He’s put a lot of work into his body this offseason. A lot of work,” Vogel said. “And we had a moment, maybe two weeks ago, where he was training at home, and we had a conversation about ‘these are some of the concerns that we have with our team, we think that we’re good here, we think we’re good there, “and then he comes in for a workout, and it was the first time we’ve seen him in a while, and his body looked awesome. And we all looked at each other like, “We’re gonna be really good this year. Just looking at this guy, we’re going to be really good this year. “

While Davis was the rare NBA player to remain silent on social media about his summer earnings, photos have surfaced showing a broad-shouldered Davis with what looks like a fuller upper body.

While Davis really added significant strength, it is relevant to the Lakers – and the NBA landscape – for several reasons. First of all, it’s no secret that Davis sometimes missed big chunks of games during his career due to lingering injuries, even earning the nickname of “street clothes” of Hall of Famer and TNT analyst Charles Barkley. If his improved body results in fewer injuries for Davis, it ensures that the Lakers will remain a viable title contender.

Second, the addition of Russell Westbrook will make it difficult for the Lakers to play a traditional big man alongside Davis, meaning he will likely have to play more center – something he’s been hesitant to do full-time since. the course of his career. Perhaps the added strength and weight will make him more comfortable hitting inside the five, allowing Vogel to play more versatile formations defensively with Westbrook, Davis, LeBron James and two shooters on the land together. Our Brad Botkin explained why Davis is key to the Lakers’ offseason moves, and part of that could involve him playing a lot at center.

Whether Vogel’s description is exaggerated or not, it’s good news for the Lakers that Davis looks healthy and in excellent shape for the season ahead. After a disappointing first-round playoff loss to the Phoenix Suns and an overhaul of the offseason roster, the Lakers are one of the favorites to claim the Championship trophy, and they will be even more dangerous if Davis can. take his game to another level due to increased strength and durability.