re: USA Today Interview with Anthony Davis

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As soon as he laid his eyes on the Oklahoma star, Davis became a fan. Later, he gave his opinion to the front office regarding the team's sixth overall pick.

Anthony Davis recently sat down for an interview with USA Today and revealed a number of his personal thoughts to journalist Nancy Armour.

The topics ranged from Buddy Hield and the 2016 Draft to Terrence Jones to the role NBA athletes can play within their communities in light of all the tragic shootings across the country.


When asked about Wade returning to his birthplace to play for the Bulls, however, Davis decided to not offer an opinion, claiming he doesn't like to get into the affairs of others. But, he did weigh in on the Pelicans recent decision to sign Terrence Jones. "We're just looking for talent. We need guys who are going to come in and play hard for us. Go out there and compete every night. They've been looking at him; they think he can do so -- it's going to be interesting to see how he fits with us."

Davis is hopeful that he and Jones can form a potent frontline again. "He's very physical, can push the ball up the floor, great flasher, can drive to the basket. I don't think there are not a lot of bigs who can guard him. I think we complemented each other at Kentucky and hopefully we can do that here in New Orleans."

Davis was next asked about Buddy Hield, specifically about whether he had played with him or in the past. "No. {AD chuckles} I didn't know who he was before this past season, but when I watched a lot of Oklahoma games, the first thing I said was, 'we've got to get him.' He's an exceptional player, he can score the ball." Armour then asked, "Did you weigh in on the pick at all?" Davis replied, "Yes, I did." It's great to see the organization continues to keep Anthony Davis in the loop.

With the recent departure of Kevin Durant, small market teams must strive to maintain the healthiest of relationships with their stars if they have any hope of retaining them for the duration of their careers.

At least it was nice to read again that Davis is still a huge fan of the Crescent City. "I love New Orleans. Great city. The food is amazing, the people are amazing. The fan love is amazing. I love being here."

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Despite their salary cap limitations, the New Orleans Pelicans improved their roster significantly on Thursday with former Rockets power forward Terrence Jones agreeing to a one-year, league minimum contract, league sources confirmed.

Jones accepted the Pelicans' league minimum contract offer that's valued just more than $1 million for an opportunity to be reunited with his former University of Kentucky teammate, Anthony Davis.

Sources say Davis played a role in helping sway Jones toward the Pelicans. The Rockets did not extend Jones a qualifying offer last month, thus allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent.

In Jones, 24, the Pelicans are getting an emerging player, who has battled injury issues, but averaged 10.4 points and 5.8 rebounds during his four seasons with the Houston Rockets.

Although Jones' primary position is power forward, he can play multiple positions that includes small forward. Pelicans coach Alvin Gentry is likely to take advantage of opportunities where he uses various lineups that could include Davis shifting to center when paired with Jones at power forward.

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