TBW with a solid write up offensive struggles so far

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Against the Golden State Warriors, the New Orleans offense tried to run through Davis much too often. During the season opener, the Pelicans first four offensive possessions went through the 22-year old in the post area. A quick 1-3 start avalanched into another 13 consecutive misses.

On most of those shot attempts, Davis either missed a jumper with an opponent in too close of proximity, or worse, he tried to create something going towards the basket. During the times he utilized the dribble, he failed to make a single attempt, missing all 6 shots.

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Anthony Davis is adept at using the dribble, but when asked to beat more than just his defender, it's not in his arsenal...yet.


Since Davis was drafted, he became accustomed to playing alongside ball dominant point guards. Monty William's system revolved around ball-handlers breaking down defenses in half-court sets. This season, the Pelicans have been asked to pick up the pace under Alvin Gentry, but the problem is they lack the necessary tools.

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Thankfully, Dell Demps signed Ish Smith right before the start of the regular season, and the coaching staff has smartly begun to utilize him. Ish has been the only Pelican who has consistently been able to create easier looks for others. Three of Davis' four dunks on the season are a direct result of passes from Smith.

Further, the best the Pelicans offense has looked so far was when Smith and Holiday shared the backcourt for about 2 minutes against the Blazers. The ball movement and penetrating ability of the two guards were directly responsible for Davis' first made three, his second trey and an easy lay-in.

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One thing is for certain though, Anthony Davis, much like the rest of his teammates, still rely on true point guards to find them. A well above the norm 3.5 turnover average says as much. AD can square up a single opponent or find the open man, but when other multiple defenders are awaiting his next move, his mission is currently too great. Until some of the missing troops return, expect more rough stretches, especially when Holiday sits.

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