Anthony Davis 2017: A Deep Dive Into His Dominant Season

Hey guys! Let's take a trip back to 2017 and dissect the absolute beast that was Anthony Davis. We're talking about a season where AD wasn't just good; he was scary good. This article is going to break down why his 2016-2017 season was so special, looking at everything from his stats and skills to his impact on the New Orleans Pelicans. Get ready for a deep dive!

The Numbers Don't Lie: A Statistical Masterclass

When evaluating a player's impact, the first place to look is often at their statistics, and in 2017, Anthony Davis put on a statistical masterclass that few could rival. Let's get into the nitty-gritty, shall we? AD averaged a whopping 28.0 points per game, showcasing his offensive prowess and ability to score in a multitude of ways. Whether it was posting up defenders, driving to the basket, or knocking down mid-range jumpers, Davis proved to be an offensive nightmare for opposing teams. But here's the kicker: it wasn't just the scoring that was impressive.

He also hauled down 11.8 rebounds per game, solidifying his presence on the boards and providing his team with crucial second-chance opportunities. His rebounding wasn't just about size and athleticism; it was about positioning, timing, and sheer determination to win possession of the ball. Furthermore, Davis showcased his defensive capabilities by averaging 2.2 blocks per game. This statistic alone underscores his importance as a rim protector and deterrent for opponents looking to score in the paint. Beyond the basic counting stats, Davis's efficiency was off the charts. He shot 50.5% from the field, demonstrating his ability to convert scoring opportunities at a high rate. His Player Efficiency Rating (PER) of 27.4 further highlighted his overall impact on the game, ranking him among the league's elite players. To put it in perspective, a PER above 25 is generally considered All-Star caliber, and Davis was well above that mark.

But it wasn't just about the numbers themselves; it was about how they translated to the court. Davis's scoring output provided a consistent offensive threat for the Pelicans, while his rebounding and shot-blocking anchored their defense. He was the focal point of their game plan on both ends of the floor, and his statistical dominance reflected his importance to the team's success. In a league increasingly driven by analytics, Davis's 2017 season stands out as a testament to his all-around excellence and ability to impact the game in multiple facets. So, when you look at the numbers, it's clear: Anthony Davis was a force to be reckoned with, and his statistical brilliance laid the foundation for his status as one of the game's premier players.

Beyond the Box Score: The Skills and Athleticism

Okay, so the stats were amazing, but Anthony Davis in 2017 was so much more than just numbers on a screen. It was about how he achieved those numbers, the sheer athleticism and refined skill set he brought to the court every single night. First off, let's talk about his mobility. For a guy his size (nearly 7 feet!), AD moved like a guard. Seriously! He could run the floor with ease, beat defenders off the dribble, and even handle the ball in transition. This agility made him a matchup nightmare for opposing big men, who simply couldn't keep up with his speed and quickness. Then there's his versatility. Davis wasn't just a back-to-the-basket big man. He had a surprisingly smooth jump shot, extending his range out to the three-point line. This ability to stretch the floor opened up driving lanes for his teammates and forced defenders to respect his outside game. He also had a knack for putting the ball on the floor, driving past slower defenders and finishing with either hand around the rim.

And don't even get me started on his post game. Davis possessed a variety of post moves, including turnaround jumpers, drop steps, and fadeaways. He could score over either shoulder and had a soft touch around the basket. But what truly set him apart was his defensive prowess. Davis was an elite shot-blocker, using his length, timing, and athleticism to swat away opponents' attempts at the rim. He also had quick hands, often poking the ball away from unsuspecting ball-handlers. Furthermore, he was a surprisingly good rebounder for his size, using his athleticism and positioning to snatch rebounds over bigger, stronger players. But perhaps the most underrated aspect of Davis's game was his basketball IQ. He had a keen understanding of the game, knowing when to pass, when to shoot, and when to drive. He also had a great feel for defensive rotations, anticipating plays and making timely rotations to help his teammates.

In summary, Anthony Davis in 2017 was a rare combination of size, athleticism, and skill. He was a walking mismatch, capable of scoring in a variety of ways and defending multiple positions. His versatility, mobility, and basketball IQ made him one of the most dangerous players in the league, and his skills and athleticism were a key ingredient in his dominant season.

Impact on the Pelicans: Carrying the Load

Let's be real, guys, in 2017, the New Orleans Pelicans were basically the Anthony Davis Show. He was the team. While there were other decent players, AD was the undisputed leader and the engine that made everything go. His impact on the Pelicans went far beyond just scoring and rebounding. He was the emotional heart of the team, setting the tone with his intensity and passion. When Davis played well, the Pelicans played well. It was that simple. On the offensive end, Davis was the focal point of the Pelicans' attack. They ran countless plays through him, utilizing his ability to score in the post, drive to the basket, and shoot from the perimeter. His presence on the court created opportunities for his teammates, drawing double teams and opening up passing lanes.

However, the Pelicans' over-reliance on Davis also had its drawbacks. When he struggled, the team often struggled with him, lacking consistent secondary scoring options. Opposing teams could focus their defensive attention on him, making it difficult for him to find open looks. Despite these challenges, Davis consistently delivered, carrying the Pelicans on his shoulders night after night. Defensively, Davis was the anchor of the Pelicans' defense. His shot-blocking ability discouraged opponents from attacking the basket, and his rebounding prowess helped limit second-chance opportunities. He also had a knack for disrupting passing lanes and forcing turnovers.

His defensive presence provided a safety net for his teammates, allowing them to take more risks on the perimeter. However, the Pelicans' defensive struggles often stemmed from a lack of consistent effort and communication from other players. Davis couldn't do it all on his own, and the team's defensive weaknesses often undermined his efforts. Despite the challenges, Davis's impact on the Pelicans in 2017 was undeniable. He carried the team on both ends of the floor, providing scoring, rebounding, shot-blocking, and leadership. While the Pelicans ultimately fell short of their championship aspirations, Davis's individual brilliance shone brightly, solidifying his status as one of the league's premier players. Without him, the Pelicans would have been lost in the NBA wilderness, but with him, they had a chance to compete every night. That's the power of Anthony Davis.

What Made 2017 Special? Context is Key

So, what exactly made Anthony Davis's 2017 season stand out from the rest? It wasn't just the stats; it was the context surrounding them. This was a season where AD truly embraced his role as a superstar, taking on a bigger leadership role and showing a level of dominance we hadn't seen from him before. One of the key factors was his health. Davis had struggled with injuries in previous seasons, but in 2017, he managed to stay relatively healthy, playing in 75 games. This allowed him to establish a rhythm and consistency that had been missing in previous years. Another factor was his supporting cast. While the Pelicans weren't exactly a powerhouse team, they did have some decent players around Davis, including Jrue Holiday and DeMarcus Cousins (who arrived mid-season). These players helped take some of the pressure off Davis, allowing him to focus on his strengths and avoid being double-teamed every possession.

Furthermore, Davis seemed to have a renewed focus and determination in 2017. He was clearly motivated to prove himself as one of the league's best players and lead the Pelicans to the playoffs. This motivation translated into increased intensity on both ends of the floor, as well as a willingness to take on a bigger leadership role. Moreover, the NBA landscape in 2017 was ripe for a dominant big man. The league was trending towards smaller, faster lineups, but Davis proved that a skilled and athletic big man could still thrive. His ability to score in the post, shoot from the perimeter, and defend multiple positions made him a matchup nightmare for opposing teams.

In essence, the combination of health, supporting cast, motivation, and NBA landscape created the perfect storm for Anthony Davis to have a special season in 2017. He seized the opportunity and established himself as one of the league's premier players, leaving a lasting impression on fans and analysts alike. It was a season that showcased his immense talent and potential, and it set the stage for his future success in the NBA. So, when you look back at Anthony Davis's career, don't forget about 2017. It was a season where he truly shined.

Legacy and Looking Ahead

Alright, so we've broken down the stats, the skills, the impact – but what does it all mean in the grand scheme of Anthony Davis's career? His 2017 season was a pivotal moment, solidifying his place among the NBA's elite and offering a glimpse into the potential he held. It raised expectations, cementing his status as a franchise cornerstone and a player capable of leading a team to championship contention. Even though the Pelicans didn't reach the ultimate goal that year, Davis's individual brilliance served as a beacon of hope for the future. Looking back, it's clear that his 2017 season laid the foundation for his subsequent success. It gave him the confidence and recognition he needed to continue improving and striving for greatness.

It also influenced the way he was perceived by the league, with opponents game-planning specifically to contain him and teammates looking to him as the primary option in crucial moments. Of course, Davis's career has taken many twists and turns since 2017, including a trade to the Los Angeles Lakers and an NBA championship victory. But his dominant season with the Pelicans remains a defining moment, a reminder of his immense talent and potential. It's a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the game. So, as we continue to watch Anthony Davis evolve and chase further accolades, let's not forget the brilliance of 2017. It was a season that showcased his exceptional skills, his impact on the Pelicans, and his enduring legacy as one of the NBA's most talented players. And who knows? Maybe we'll see another season like that from him again soon!