Anthony Davis Dismisses Pelicans Exit Talk After Signing With LeBron's Agent

Anthony Davis’ switch from the Wasserman agency to Klutch Sports has been confirmed but the New Orleans Pelicans star brushed off speculation about a potential move away from his current employers.

The five-time All-Star will now be managed by Rich Paul, who also represents Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James. There was speculation about the switch earlier in the year, but as per league rules, a player has to file paperwork with the player’s union and then wait 15 days before changing representation.

Davis’ switch to Klutch Sports immediately began talk of a potential switch from the Pelicans, but he quickly dismissed any such speculation by making it clear this move was necessary as he wishes to become the most dominant player in the league.

“I thought the change was necessary," Davis told ESPN on Monday during media day ahead of the start of the NBA pre-season. "That’s all it was.”

"Just trying to be the most dominant player in the league. I think making that change and going with Klutch definitely will help me do so,” he said.

Davis has been linked with a move to the Boston Celtics in the past and the Lakers are likely to be another name added to the list of potential destinations after his switch to Klutch Sports. The 25-year-old still has two-years remaining on his contract with the Pelicans plus a player option for the 2020-21 season. He will also be eligible for a five-year $235 million contract after this season.

Former Celtics center Paul Pierce recently suggested that Davis will leave the Pelicans before the trade deadline — Feb. 7 — if his current employers are not in the mix for the playoffs. But the last season’s MVP contender was clear his focus remains on the short-term which is to do well with the Pelicans while establishing himself as the best player on the court every time he steps on it.

"My focus is to win, to come in every day and do all I can go help this organization," Davis added. "While establishing myself as the best player on the floor every night."

"I'm here. I want to focus on winning this year with the squad that we have. We have a good squad," he added.

Pelicans coach Alvin Gentry was also not too concerned about losing his star player ahead of the new season. He is confident if they do well as a franchise and help Davis become the best player, he will remain in New Orleans for the foreseeable future.

"We have to try to make AD the best player that he can possibly be," Gentry said. "We have to try to be successful as a franchise, and then if we do all of that, all of the other stuff takes care of itself."

The Pelicans begin their pre-season campaign Sunday, Sept. 30, against the Chicago Bulls. They also face the Atlanta Hawks, New York Knicks, Miami Heat and the Toronto Raptors before they begin their 2018-19 NBA season against the Houston Rockets on Oct. 17.