Anthony Davis: Position Played Each Year?

Oct 31, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 42 views

Hey guys! Ever wondered about the different positions Anthony Davis has played throughout his illustrious career? This NBA superstar has showcased his skills in multiple roles, adapting to his team's needs and evolving his game over the years. Let's dive deep into Anthony Davis's positional journey, year by year, exploring how he's dominated the court from power forward to center. We'll break down his primary positions, analyze how his role has shifted across different teams and seasons, and highlight the impact he's made in each spot. Whether you're a die-hard Lakers fan, an NBA enthusiast, or simply curious about AD's versatility, this article has got you covered. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the fascinating positional evolution of one of basketball's biggest stars!

Early Career: Dominating as a Power Forward

Anthony Davis entered the NBA as the number one overall pick in the 2012 NBA draft, selected by the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans). Initially, Davis primarily played the power forward position. In his early years, his athleticism, length, and developing offensive skills made him a force to be reckoned with at the four. At power forward, Davis showcased his ability to score both inside and out. His jump shot was already a potent weapon, and his ability to drive to the basket and finish strong made him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenders. Defensively, his length and agility allowed him to guard multiple positions, block shots, and disrupt passing lanes. His time as a power forward was marked by rapid development and consistent improvement, setting the stage for his future versatility. Davis quickly established himself as one of the league’s rising stars, earning accolades and recognition for his performances. He demonstrated a unique blend of finesse and power, which allowed him to excel against a variety of opponents. His court awareness and basketball IQ were evident early on, enabling him to make smart plays and contribute effectively to the team’s success. As a power forward, Davis learned the intricacies of NBA-level competition, adapting to the physicality and strategic demands of the game. This foundational period was crucial in shaping his overall skill set and preparing him for the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. The versatility he displayed even in his early years hinted at his potential to play multiple positions, a trait that would become a hallmark of his career. Overall, Davis's initial stint as a power forward provided a strong platform for his growth into one of the NBA's most dominant and versatile players.

Transition to Center: Embracing the Five

As Anthony Davis matured and his physical presence grew, so did his time spent at the center position. While he often played alongside another big man early in his career, the shift towards playing center full-time became more pronounced as the years progressed. This transition was driven by a combination of factors, including team needs, strategic advantages, and Davis's own evolving skill set. Playing center allowed Davis to fully utilize his defensive prowess. His shot-blocking ability became even more impactful closer to the basket, and his rebounding numbers saw a significant boost. Offensively, playing at the five gave him more opportunities in the post, where he could use his size and agility to score over smaller defenders. The transition to center also highlighted his versatility, as he could still step out and shoot from the perimeter, making him a tough cover for traditional centers. This adaptability made him a valuable asset for any team looking to space the floor and create mismatches. Davis embraced the challenge of playing center, honing his skills in the post and developing a reputation as one of the league’s premier rim protectors. His presence in the paint became a deterrent for opposing players, and his ability to control the boards gave his team second-chance opportunities. Furthermore, playing center enhanced his leadership role on the court, as he was often the focal point of the defense and a primary option on offense. The strategic advantages of having Davis at center were clear. His ability to stretch the floor, coupled with his interior dominance, created a dynamic offensive threat. Defensively, his mobility and shot-blocking made him a cornerstone of his team's defensive schemes. This positional shift underscored Davis's commitment to adapting to his team’s needs and maximizing his impact on both ends of the court. The experience gained at center has been instrumental in his development as one of the NBA’s most complete players.

Positional Versatility: A Key to Success

Anthony Davis's ability to play both power forward and center at an elite level is a testament to his versatility, a key ingredient in his success. This positional flexibility makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing teams and a valuable asset for any coaching staff. Being able to seamlessly switch between the four and the five allows teams to implement various offensive and defensive strategies. For instance, Davis can play alongside another big man, providing a formidable frontcourt pairing, or he can play as a small-ball center, stretching the floor and creating driving lanes for his teammates. This adaptability makes his team harder to scout and defend. His versatility extends beyond just his position; he can score in a multitude of ways, from posting up and driving to shooting three-pointers and mid-range jumpers. This offensive repertoire keeps defenses guessing and prevents them from focusing on one aspect of his game. Defensively, he’s equally versatile, capable of guarding smaller, quicker players on the perimeter and battling bigger, stronger players in the paint. His shot-blocking and rebounding prowess make him a force inside, while his agility and basketball IQ allow him to switch onto guards when needed. This defensive flexibility is crucial in today’s NBA, where teams often prioritize versatility and switchability on defense. Davis's positional versatility has not only enhanced his individual performance but also contributed significantly to the success of his teams. Coaches have been able to deploy him in a variety of roles, depending on the opponent and the game situation. This adaptability has made him a valuable piece of championship-contending teams. His ability to play multiple positions at a high level is a rare and coveted skill in the NBA, setting him apart from many of his peers. The combination of his offensive skills, defensive prowess, and positional versatility makes Anthony Davis one of the most impactful players in the league. His career trajectory underscores the importance of adaptability in modern basketball, and his success serves as an inspiration for aspiring players looking to develop a versatile skill set.

Anthony Davis's Positions by Year

Let's break down Anthony Davis's primary position year by year in the NBA:

2012-2013 (New Orleans Hornets/Pelicans): Primarily Power Forward (PF) - Davis entered the league as a raw but supremely talented prospect, mainly playing power forward alongside center Robin Lopez. His rookie season showcased his potential as a versatile scorer and defender, but he was still developing his strength and post game.
2013-2014 (New Orleans Pelicans): Primarily Power Forward (PF) - Davis continued to play the majority of his minutes at power forward, forming a dynamic frontcourt duo with Ryan Anderson. This season saw a significant leap in his offensive production, as he became a more polished scorer and playmaker. Defensively, he established himself as one of the league’s premier shot-blockers.
2014-2015 (New Orleans Pelicans): Primarily Power Forward (PF) with increasing minutes at Center (C) - This season marked the beginning of a more balanced approach, with Davis seeing more time at center. Injuries to other big men on the roster necessitated the shift, and Davis thrived in the role. His versatility allowed the Pelicans to play different styles, depending on the matchup.
2015-2016 (New Orleans Pelicans): Split between Power Forward (PF) and Center (C) - Davis split his time almost evenly between power forward and center, showcasing his ability to excel at both positions. The Pelicans experimented with different lineups, and Davis’s adaptability was crucial in maintaining their competitiveness. His offensive output remained high, and he continued to be a defensive force.
2016-2017 (New Orleans Pelicans): Primarily Center (C) - With the Pelicans’ acquisition of DeMarcus Cousins, Davis shifted primarily to the center position. This season highlighted his ability to anchor a team’s defense and score efficiently in the post. His presence inside opened up opportunities for his teammates, and he became a focal point of the offense.
2017-2018 (New Orleans Pelicans): Primarily Center (C) - Davis continued to play the majority of his minutes at center, forming a dominant frontcourt partnership with Cousins before the latter’s injury. His offensive production reached new heights, and he solidified his status as one of the league’s top centers. His defensive impact remained consistent, making him a two-way superstar.
2018-2019 (New Orleans Pelicans): Primarily Center (C) - Despite trade rumors swirling around him, Davis played predominantly at center during his final season with the Pelicans. He continued to put up impressive numbers, but the team’s struggles ultimately led to his departure.
2019-2020 (Los Angeles Lakers): Primarily Power Forward (PF) alongside Center JaVale McGee/Dwight Howard - Joining the Lakers and teaming up with LeBron James, Davis returned to playing power forward for the majority of the season. His fit alongside traditional centers like JaVale McGee and Dwight Howard allowed him to excel as a versatile scorer and defender. This season culminated in an NBA championship, showcasing his ability to thrive in a different role within a championship-caliber team.
2020-2021 (Los Angeles Lakers): Split between Power Forward (PF) and Center (C) - Injuries and roster adjustments led to Davis splitting his time between power forward and center. His versatility was crucial as the Lakers navigated a challenging season. He continued to be a key player on both ends of the court.
2021-2022 (Los Angeles Lakers): Primarily Center (C) - Davis played more minutes at center as the Lakers sought to maximize their offensive firepower. His ability to score in the post and stretch the floor was a key component of their strategy. However, injuries continued to impact his availability and consistency.
2022-2023 (Los Angeles Lakers): Primarily Center (C) - Davis has primarily played center, showcasing dominance on both ends. His improved health and focus have allowed him to be a dominant force, making a strong case for Defensive Player of the Year.

Impact and Legacy

Anthony Davis’s positional journey is a reflection of his adaptability, skill, and basketball IQ. His ability to play both power forward and center at an elite level has made him one of the most versatile and impactful players in the NBA. His legacy will be defined not only by his individual accolades but also by his ability to adapt and contribute to team success. Whether he's dominating in the post, stretching the floor with his jump shot, or protecting the rim with his shot-blocking ability, Davis has consistently proven his value to any team he's on. His journey underscores the importance of versatility in the modern NBA and serves as an example for aspiring players looking to make an impact in multiple ways. As his career continues, it will be fascinating to see how his role evolves and how he continues to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the league. Guys, AD's versatility truly sets him apart!