LAKERS NEWS: Representing his new team, the Dallas Mavericks, former Laker star Anthony Davis made a comeback to the Lakers’ practice facility for Klutch Sports’ Pro Day.

On a day filled with nostalgia and new beginnings, former Los Angeles Lakers superstar Anthony Davis made a high-profile return to the Lakers’ practice facility—this time representing his new team, the Dallas Mavericks. The occasion was Klutch Sports’ Pro Day, a prestigious event hosted by the agency that manages some of the NBA’s biggest names, including Davis himself.

For Lakers fans, seeing “AD” back at the legendary UCLA Health Training Center was bittersweet. For Mavericks supporters, it was a glimpse into the future of their franchise’s frontcourt. For the NBA world, it was a moment that underscored how quickly allegiances and team dynamics can shift in the ever-evolving basketball landscape.

Anthony Davis joined the Lakers in 2019 in a blockbuster trade from the New Orleans Pelicans. His arrival alongside LeBron James ignited hopes of a new Lakers dynasty, and together, they delivered a 2020 NBA championship — the franchise’s first in a decade. Davis was a dominant force throughout the playoffs, blending elite defense, versatile scoring, and a knack for clutch performances.

However, injuries and inconsistent play clouded Davis’s Lakers tenure after that championship season. Over the past few years, persistent health issues limited his court time and effectiveness, frustrating fans and fueling speculation about the team’s long-term plans. By the 2024-2025 season, whispers of change grew louder. Eventually, Davis was traded to the Dallas Mavericks in the offseason, marking the end of an era in L.A.

Klutch Sports, led by powerhouse agent Rich Paul, hosts an annual Pro Day event that draws NBA stars, coaches, and executives from across the league. It serves multiple purposes: a showcase for rising prospects, a networking hub for agents and front offices, and a platform for veteran players to demonstrate their readiness for the upcoming season.

This year’s Pro Day was especially significant because it featured several notable NBA names returning to familiar venues. Anthony Davis’s decision to train at the Lakers’ practice facility, despite now wearing a Mavericks jersey, reflected both his personal history with the team and the professionalism of Klutch Sports.

During the Pro Day workout, Davis displayed flashes of the dominant play style that once made him one of the league’s most feared big men. Observers noted his improved conditioning and sharpness in pick-and-roll scenarios. His defensive footwork and rim protection, hallmarks of his game, seemed to be reemerging as he prepared for his debut with Dallas.

Social media buzzed as photos and videos of Davis working out at the Lakers facility circulated. Many Lakers fans expressed mixed feelings — pride in Davis’s past contributions, sadness that the partnership ended, and hope that both he and the Lakers can find success separately.

One longtime Lakers supporter tweeted, “Seeing AD back at the Lakers practice brings back the memories of 2020. Wish he could have stayed healthy. Good luck in Dallas.” Another fan commented, “It’s weird seeing him in Mavericks gear here, but at least he’s still the same AD we know.”

Meanwhile, some fans voiced frustration about how injuries derailed what could have been a longer, more dominant Lakers era with Davis. The trade to Dallas felt like a fresh start not just for Davis but for the Lakers as well, who are rebuilding around younger talent.

For the Mavericks, landing Anthony Davis was a major coup. Dallas had long been searching for a dominant big man to complement their superstar guard, and Davis fits that mold perfectly when healthy. His presence is expected to transform the Mavericks’ defense, provide inside scoring, and create mismatches against opponents.

Watching Davis at the Lakers facility showcased the seriousness of his commitment to his new team. His workouts suggest he is eager to shed injury concerns and return to elite form. Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd expressed optimism, stating in a recent interview, “AD is one of the best big men in the game when he’s right. We’re excited to have him, and today’s workout shows his dedication.”

The Mavericks’ front office also noted that the chemistry Davis had with the Lakers’ coaching staff and training team was part of the reason the facility was chosen for his preparation. Familiarity with the environment and top-tier resources were important to Davis’s rehab and conditioning plan.

Klutch Sports has become a major force in shaping modern NBA careers, representing some of the biggest stars and leveraging its influence to create unique opportunities like Pro Day. For players like Davis, the agency offers a platform not only to train but also to reconnect with NBA personnel and keep their names in the spotlight.

Rich Paul’s vision for Klutch Sports has been to combine elite training with strategic networking and career management. Pro Day events exemplify this by blending physical preparation with business and branding opportunities. For Davis, showing up at a former team’s facility while representing a new franchise is a testament to the agency’s reach and the professionalism of the players involved.

No discussion about Anthony Davis is complete without addressing the elephant in the room — his injury history. Davis’s Lakers tenure was marked by various ailments, including calf strains, shoulder issues, and foot injuries that limited his availability.

However, reports from the Pro Day suggest Davis has made substantial progress in his health. Observers noted his fluid movement, stamina, and explosiveness during the drills. His training regimen includes a combination of strength training, mobility work, and injury prevention protocols tailored by Klutch Sports experts.

Team doctors in Dallas are hopeful that this commitment to conditioning will reduce Davis’s time sidelined and allow him to contribute at a high level throughout the season. The Mavericks are managing his minutes carefully, and they plan to ease him back into full action gradually.

Anthony Davis’s legacy with the Lakers is firmly cemented by the 2020 championship. That season represented the pinnacle of his career, where his dominant defense and timely scoring helped bring L.A. back to glory.

Many analysts believe that when Davis was fully healthy, he was arguably the best two-way player in the NBA. His ability to guard multiple positions, protect the rim, and stretch the floor with his shooting made him invaluable. His partnership with LeBron James created one of the most potent duos in recent NBA history.

Though injuries prevented the duo from repeating their success, Davis’s impact on the Lakers franchise will be remembered fondly by fans and historians alike.

With Davis now in Dallas, the Lakers are embracing a new chapter. The franchise is focusing on developing young talent and pursuing other roster moves to rebuild their core. The front office remains optimistic about returning to championship contention in the coming years.

Coach Darvin Ham has emphasized a team-oriented approach, prioritizing defensive intensity and offensive balance. The departure of Davis means a shift in playing style and personnel but also an opportunity to build a more resilient and durable squad.

Dallas has long coveted a championship, and acquiring Anthony Davis signals their serious intent. Pairing him with Luka Dončić creates a formidable one-two punch. Dončić’s playmaking and scoring combined with Davis’s defense and versatility could make the Mavericks a top contender in the Western Conference.

Mavericks fans are eager to see how quickly Davis can adapt to the system and regain his peak form. If healthy, he has the potential to elevate the team to new heights and challenge perennial powerhouses like the Golden State Warriors and Phoenix Suns.

The reaction around the league to Davis’s return to the Lakers facility and his new chapter in Dallas has been overwhelmingly positive. Fellow players have praised his professionalism and determination.

NBA analyst Rachel Nichols remarked, “Anthony Davis is one of those rare players who combines elite talent with a relentless work ethic. Seeing him at the Lakers facility shows his dedication to getting back to his best. The Mavericks got a steal.”

Former Lakers teammate LeBron James sent Davis a supportive message on social media, wishing him success and reminiscing about their championship run together.

As the 2025-2026 NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Anthony Davis. Will he return to the dominant form that once made him a perennial All-Star and Defensive Player of the Year candidate? Can he stay healthy and help lead the Mavericks to a title?

Based on his Pro Day performance and the optimism surrounding his conditioning, the signs are encouraging. Davis is reportedly motivated more than ever to prove himself, not just as a former Laker but as a Maverick ready to make history.

Anthony Davis’s visit to the Lakers practice facility as a Dallas Maverick during Klutch Sports’ Pro Day was a compelling moment filled with symbolism and promise. It underscored his journey from L.A. champion to Dallas hopeful, showcased his commitment to excellence, and reminded the NBA community of his enduring talent.

For Lakers fans, it was a moment to reflect on a memorable era. For Mavericks fans, it was the dawn of a hopeful new chapter. And for Davis himself, it was a step toward reclaiming his place among the NBA’s elite.

The road ahead will have its challenges, but if there is one thing Anthony Davis has proven, it is that resilience and dedication can rewrite narratives — and that journey continues, right from the Lakers practice floor to the bright lights of Dallas.