Anthony Davis, C, New Orleans Pelicans (42-26, 8th in the West)
24.3 PPG
10.3 RPG
3.0 BPG
When he was drafted with the #1 pick in 2012 by the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans), Anthony Davis was expected to be the next great big man. Well, this season, Davis is playing like the former number pick he is. When he was drafted, the Pelicans were in rebuild mode, but with the acquisitions of Tyreke Evans and Ryan Anderson, the rebuilding Pelicans are knocking on the door, trying to sneak their way into the playoffs.
Davis’ play has been stellar for the Pelicans. In the first game of this season, against the Orlando Magic, Davis had one of the best season opening performances of all time, totaling 26 points, 17 rebounds, 9 blocks, 3 steals and 2 assists. It was the first 26-point/17-rebound/9-block/3-steal game since Hakeem Olajuwon did it during the 1989-90 season. In March, Davis tied his career high with 41 points and 10 rebounds in a win against the Bucks, and he was selected to be a starter in only his second All-Star game, though he didn’t play due to injury. Just like Westbrook, Davis’ MVP hopes are on the line because of his team’s standing in the playoff picture. If the Thunder knock the Pelicans out, Davis can kiss those hopes goodbye.
