Stephen A. Smith lays out what Anthony Davis must now do to justify Mavericks’ Luka Doncic trade

Stephen A. Smith says Anthony Davis has to be the guy he was for the Dallas Mavericks when he first got traded

Davis needs to get back on track after a disappointing outing against the Spurs.

ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith said that in order for the Mavericks’ Luka Doncic trade for Davis to be justified, Davis must play how he first played when he arrived in Dallas.

The Mavericks got the full Davis experience in his debut against the Houston Rockets last season as he put up 26 points, 16 rebounds, 7 assists and 3 blocks in just 31 minutes.

“You got to be the dude that you were in the first half for the Dallas Mavericks after you got traded [vs Houston]. You got to be that dude all the time, because that’s what’s going to justify the move that was made.

“I’m not holding Wembanyama against him. He’s 7’5. But in the same breath I need to see something in your game that shows you ready to take the mantle, and you ready to handle your business.”

Anthony Davis needs to get back on track

Davis must remain focused after a rough season opener and get back on track.

The Mavericks host the Washington Wizards next so this is a perfect opportunity for Davis to showcase his dominance.

Then Davis will have another opportunity for a big outing when Dallas takes on the Toronto Raptors.

If the Mavericks want to make some noise this season without Kyrie Irving, they need Davis to be at his best.