Anthony Davis didn’t just dominate the scoreboard in the Lakers’ 110-103 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves—he might’ve also dropped a hint that reigning four-time Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert should keep an eye out. With a commanding 36 points, 16 rebounds, and a healthy dose of swagger, Davis backed up his dominant performance with a postgame comment that left little to the imagination.
“Defensive Player of the Year type stuff,” Davis casually remarked after the game, clearly enjoying the not-so-subtle jab.
Swat, Swat, and Another Swat—AD’s Block Party
The Lakers may have opened the 2024-25 season with a win, but it was Davis who made sure everyone knew who the real defensive king was. Among his three blocks, the most satisfying one for the fans was when he sent Gobert’s shot into the shadow realm, proving once again why AD is in the DPOY conversation every season. Of course, Davis has been vocal in the past about his feelings toward not winning the award himself, despite being a perennial contender. So, when asked about his blocks, he didn’t shy away from stirring the pot.
Gobert? Who’s That?
Let’s be real—when you block the guy who’s literally branded himself as the NBA’s defensive titan, you’ve earned the right to flex a little. Davis’ all-around brilliance on both ends of the court was a reminder that, while Gobert may have the trophies, Davis has the receipts. The Lakers star took over on defense and then turned up the heat in the fourth quarter offensively, icing the Timberwolves to give the Lakers their first season opener win since 2016.
Davis Sets a New Bar (Again)
As if his monster game wasn’t enough, Davis achieved something only he could: becoming the first player in NBA history to record at least 30 points, 15 rebounds, three assists, and three blocks in a season opener for the third time. He previously accomplished the feat in the 2016-17 and 2018-19 seasons, back when he was busy carrying the New Orleans Pelicans. Two of those games? Wins, naturally.
Looking Ahead: AD in Full Beast Mode
Davis is coming off a strong 2023-24 season where he stayed healthy, and his performance only got better after a gold-medal run with Team USA. New Lakers head coach JJ Redick has already made it clear that Davis is the hub of the offense, and Tuesday night was proof. The Lakers’ game plan? Simple—feed AD, then get out of the way.
Up next, the Lakers face the Phoenix Suns. If Davis can continue his two-way dominance, you can bet he’ll be sending a few more “subtle” messages to the rest of the league. As for Gobert, well, it might be time to check the replay.