The Los Angeles Lakers introduced one of their newest acquisitions today in young big man Ed Davis. While it is less heralded than other Lakers moves, it could wind up being just as influential.
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Davis has struggled to find a home in his short career, but as he said during his press conference, via the LA Daily News’ Mark Medina, he would love to be in LA for a long time:
Davis on Lakers being a long-term home: "I would love to be."
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) July 23, 2014
Davis spent the last couple of seasons in Memphis behind the best big-man tandem in the NBA in Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol. Minutes were difficult to come by with the Grizzlies, but Davis was able to produce in spurts.
His per-36 numbers of around 13 points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks are impressive, and show that he could be a rim protector, something the Lakers lack right now. His time in Memphis also gave him a defensive mindset, something the team lacked last season.
The Lakers of course have a glut of big men on the roster, but according to our own reporter Serena Winters, Davis believes he can play both positions:
Ed Davis says he can play both the 4 and the 5.
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) July 23, 2014
Once the Lakers hire a coach, players and fans can begin to get an idea of how the rotation may shake out. If Davis can show he can play center and bring a defensive presence no one else has, he very well could be a Laker for a long time.
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Lakers Signing Ed Davis To Two-Year Deal