We delve into various facets of the game, but at its core, basketball revolves around two fundamental elements: putting the ball through the hoop and thwarting the opposing team’s attempts to do the same.

In Tuesday night’s matchup against the Phoenix Suns, LeBron James took center stage in scoring, making a substantial contribution with 31 points in the Lakers’ 106-103 triumph. Meanwhile, Anthony Davis assumed the role of defensive stalwart, securing six defensive rebounds, executing two blocks, and showcasing elite rim protection.

Following the victory, which secured Los Angeles’ spot in the NBA In-Season Tournament semi-finals in Las Vegas, LeBron James attributed the success to Anthony Davis’ defensive prowess.

“AD is our anchor when it comes to our defense,” James said postgame. “He can do everything on the floor. I don’t think we have another one in the league that can do it, that can guard one through five and we know that he can get a stop. He’s been doing it for it for so long. I think it gets taken for granted. Our league, when we talk about Defensive Player of the Year and guys that defend at a high level, it’s more than blocking shots.

 It’s being able to switch out and disrupt offenses. It’s being able to switch out on the perimeter (on) marquee guys, the ability to shut down everything and disrupt everything. AD does that. He’s our anchor. We got the utmost confidence whenever we have an opportunity to get to that switching lineup and AD is on an island on a guard, we feel like he’s going to win that matchup.”

Consistently, on Tuesday night, Davis emerged victorious in his matchups, whether facing a formidable big like Jusuf Nurkic or a nimble guard like Devin Booker. His remarkable combination of speed and strength allows him to cover extensive ground and swiftly recover, excelling in defending both perimeter and paint.

Despite his nightly displays of defensive excellence, Anthony Davis remains without a Defensive Player of the Year Award, a fact that bewilders devoted fans who witness his defensive prowess regularly. Perhaps, with his stellar performance and unwavering consistency this season—he has missed just one game thus far—the award voters will, at last, accord him the recognition that befits his exceptional defensive play.

For now, Anthony Davis must content himself with the admiration of fans and acknowledgment from teammates, who recognize and celebrate his defensive greatness as an integral force on the team.