Anthony Davis vs. Warriors: A History of the Rivalry
When Anthony Davis steps onto the court against the Golden State Warriors, it’s more than just another regular-season game—it’s a chapter in an ongoing basketball rivalry that has seen high stakes, unforgettable performances, and key moments that have defined Davis' career. From epic playoff battles to regular-season matchups, Davis has often found himself in the spotlight when facing off against the Warriors.
Early Encounters: Setting the Stage
Anthony Davis’ first encounters with the Warriors came during his early years with the New Orleans Pelicans. As a rising star in the NBA, Davis was known for his dominant play on both ends of the floor. The Pelicans were often an underdog in these matchups, but Davis consistently showed that he could compete with some of the league’s best, including the Warriors’ superstars like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green.
One of the earliest defining moments of the Davis-Warriors rivalry occurred in 2015, when the Pelicans met the Warriors in the first round of the NBA Playoffs. Although New Orleans was swept, Davis made his presence felt with some jaw-dropping performances, particularly in Game 3, where he recorded a 29-point, 15-rebound performance. Despite the loss, Davis proved that he could hold his own against one of the league’s most dominant teams.
The Move to the Lakers: A New Chapter in the Rivalry
Davis’ move to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019 elevated the rivalry to a new level. With the Lakers now armed with Davis alongside LeBron James, the team became a championship contender. This new power dynamic created more intrigue when the Warriors, still led by the “Splash Brothers” (Curry and Thompson), began to reassert themselves as contenders after their own injury-ridden period.
One of the most memorable moments in the Davis-Warriors rivalry came in the 2020 NBA Playoffs, where the Lakers and Warriors didn’t meet directly in a postseason series, but Davis played a key role in leading the Lakers to a championship in the bubble. The Warriors, though, had been a thorn in the Lakers’ side during the previous seasons, often preventing them from asserting dominance in the Western Conference.
Iconic Matchups: Davis vs. Golden State
As a member of the Lakers, Davis has been a frequent presence in head-to-head matchups against the Warriors, and these games often feature intense battles in the paint. Davis’ ability to protect the rim, score efficiently in the post, and stretch the floor has made him a difficult matchup for the Warriors. His high-level defense is a key reason why the Lakers, with Davis, have been able to stifle Golden State’s fast-paced offense.
