Watch Anthony Davis Do A Little Bit Of Everything In Close Loss To Cavs

The Cavs came back to beat the Pelicans, 118-111, last night to avoid losing their second consecutive game at Quicken Loans Arena. Despite the loss, Anthony Davis showed why he’s become the profile de jure for NBA scribes this season. His overall performance in the loss — with 27 points (11-of-21 shooting), 14 rebounds, four assists, four steals and three blocks — still has fans and analysts alike salivating at his potential.

We wouldn’t even call Ant’s game potential anymore; he’s a real-life force just blooming into the MVP flower he’s destined to become. Perhaps the scariest part for New Orleans opponents is Ant’s increasing accuracy on his mid-range shot. He hit a nice pick-and-pop early…

and just turned and swished a nonchalant jumper over the 6-8 LeBron as the Pellies were trying to come back late:

Obviously, he’s still a heavy load on the boards, but he’s quick enough to intercept this lazy LeBron pass — perhaps this was the 10th assist the statisticians incorrectly awarded him — early, sprint to the other end to catch up to the deflection and bounce it to Jrue Holiday even while losing his footing.

Click for more on Ant’s defense…

Davis is still a rim protector despite New Orleans giving up 118 points in a regulation game. He’s got a knuckle-dragging wingspan on a lithe, quick frame that allows him to slink out and annoy perimeter shooters while also protecting the paint:

Anthony Davis is a real MVP candidate, and his bonafides will be tethered to the Pellies fortunes all season long. With that caveat attached, Kevin Durant was right, The Brow is the next in line for the Maurice Podoloff trophy.

(video via Dawk Ins)

When will Anthony Davis win the MVP award?

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