Lakers: Anthony Davis’ record-breaking finals performances

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 09: Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the fourth quarter against the Miami Heat in Game Five of the 2020 NBA Finals at AdventHealth Arena at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on October 9, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 09: Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the fourth quarter against the Miami Heat in Game Five of the 2020 NBA Finals at AdventHealth Arena at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on October 9, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
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(Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers
(Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers

More records and Anthony Davis’s statistics:

Anyway, back to the records. According to NBA Statistics, Davis is now one of 5 players to shoot 50-40-90 or better in the NBA Finals (minimum 20+ points per game). Joining Kevin Durant (2017, 2018), Chauncey Billups (2004), Penny Hardaway (2005), and Magic Johnson (1987).

Davis was the 3rd-highest Laker in defensive rating through the finals (106.6). Behind Danny Green (101.8) and Alex Caruso (105.4). He was the 2nd-highest in offensive rating (116.7), tipped ever-so-slightly by Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (116.8).

This placed Davis 2nd in overall net rating (10.1), behind Danny Green (11.8). In terms of plus/minus, Davis was 2nd (3.9) behind fellow superstar LeBron James (6.6).

In terms of game score, Davis recorded 22.8. This places him among the best ever in the NBA Finals by a player not to win Finals MVP, according to Basketball-Reference.

When looking at players that specifically won a championship with their team, since 1984, Davis sits 3rd. Behind Magic Johnson in 1988 (24.4) and Stephen Curry in 2017 (24.1).

A lot more could be said and there are probably many more records floating around. Although, it’s clear to see that Anthony Davis is made for the big-time. The haul of assets sent to the New Orleans Pelicans to acquire his services seems a distant memory now.

He appears keen to re-sign with the Lakers, as per various reports. Should that happen, the purple and gold will be in safe superstar hands for a long time to come.