Anthony Davis Explains Long-Term Lakers Deal, Will Wear New Jersey Number By 2021-22 Season

Anthony Davis opted for a long-term deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, and the 27-year-old explained that it was due to his injury history. Though he could have signed a shorter contract and earn more money with new pacts, the NBA champion felt it was the best option for him right now.

In his first media appearance, “The Brow” shed some light on why he signed a five-year deal rather than a speculated two- or three-year contract. One of the reasons behind this decision is that he knows he has a “little” history with injuries, ESPN reported.

"That could have been a two-year, three-year deal," Davis stated. "[But] I have to think about, also, the reality of things, too. I do have a little history with injuries, and a two-year deal, you kind of bet on yourself."

"God forbid, knock on wood, something happens," he continued. "I want to secure the most amount of years possible and be here long term with this team, so I thought the five-year deal was best for me in my situation."

Davis agreed to a five-year deal worth $190 million and is set to earn $32.7 million this 2020-21 NBA season. He has an early termination option ahead of the 2024-25 season. Hence, he has four guaranteed seasons with the purple and gold, which hint at more NBA titles, ESPN reported.

While Davis was rewarded generously, the Lakers lose all hope of financial flexibility moving forward. As mentioned in a previous report, a short-term deal could have given Los Angeles a chance to possibly making a run at Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The two-time NBA MVP has yet to sign a supermax deal with the Milwaukee Bucks, a reason why multiple teams are keeping tabs on the situation. One team likely out of that mix are the Lakers.

In other developments, Davis will get to wear the no. 23 jersey for the Lakers starting with the 2021-22 season. James currently wears that number but was ready to give it to the 6-foot-10 center.

James planned to switch back to his old no. 6 jersey last summer, but the request could not be accommodated by Nike. They were unable to produce the apparel in time for the start of the new campaign on Dec. 22.

Regardless, that jersey number change is unlikely to be a major factor for the Lakers. They had a busy and productive offseason, resulting in an improved roster for another potential NBA title.