From G League to Lakers: Armel Traoré Learns from the Best
Armel Traoré, the older brother of highly touted prospect Nolan Traoré, may have gone undrafted in the 2024 NBA draft, but his journey has taken an unexpected and exciting turn. Signed by the Los Angeles Lakers, Traoré has found himself sharing the court with NBA legends like LeBron James and anthony Davis.
While initially spending time honing his skills in the G League, injuries within the Lakers’ roster opened a door for Traoré to showcase his abilities on the NBA stage. This invaluable experience has allowed him to learn from some of the best players in the world, including the dominant Anthony Davis.
in a recent interview with First Team, Traoré expressed his awe at Davis’s versatility and skillset. “Honestly, I think he’s the most complete big man I’ve ever seen,” Traoré remarked. “He can shoot threes, post up, face up, block shots, even handle the ball in pick-and-rolls. Being around him every day is a masterclass in basketball.”
Traoré, who also plays the center position, recognizes the immense value of learning from a player of Davis’s caliber. “It’s a huge advantage for me as a rookie to learn directly from the best,” he shared. “They’re incredibly approachable and always willing to offer advice. Playing alongside him is truly amazing.”
Davis, who has battled injuries in the past, has enjoyed a resurgence in recent seasons. Averaging nearly 27 points, 12 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game, he has become the Lakers’ primary offensive weapon under coach JJ Redick. This resurgence has allowed LeBron James, now approaching 40 years old, to take a slightly reduced role.
For Armel Traoré, this unexpected opportunity to play alongside NBA superstars is a dream come true. Learning from the likes of Anthony Davis will undoubtedly accelerate his advancement and set the stage for a promising NBA career.
Learning from the Best: An Interview with Howard Eisley on Armel Traoré’s Lakers Journey
Joining us today is NBA analyst and former NBA point guard Howard Eisley. howard, welcome to the show!
Howard Eisley: Thanks for having me. It’s always a pleasure to talk basketball.
We’re here to discuss the remarkable journey of Armel Traoré, who went undrafted but landed a spot with the Los Angeles Lakers and is now learning from the likes of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Howard Eisley: It’s a fantastic story. It just goes to show there are multiple paths to making it in the NBA. Traoré’s resilience and dedication shine through. Not getting drafted can be a tough pill to swallow, but he didn’t let it derail his dreams.
Traoré has been outspoken about the impact Anthony Davis has had on his development. He called Davis “the most complete big man I’ve ever seen.” Do you agree with that assessment, Howard?
Howard eisley: I wouldn’t necessarily say he’s the most complete ever, but Davis is undoubtedly one of the most versatile big men in the league today.His ability to impact the game on both ends of the court is remarkable.
He can score from anywhere, defend multiple positions, rebound, and block shots. having a guy like Davis to learn from is an invaluable asset for any young center.
One thing that stands out about this situation is that Traoré is getting this experience in such a high-pressure environment, playing alongside two legends. do you think that’s a benefit or a potential detriment to his development?
Howard Eisley: That’s a great question. It’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, sharing the court with LeBron and Davis every day is an astonishing learning experience. You see firsthand how thay prepare, their work ethic, their basketball IQ.It’s a masterclass.
But the downside is the intense pressure to perform. Every move is scrutinized, the expectations are sky-high. It can be overwhelming for a young player still finding his footing.
Howard Eisley: Absolutely. But remember, Traoré got his start in the G League. That grind, that daily battle for recognition, helped toughen him up. He’s shown he’s not afraid of hard work.
now, with the Lakers, he has a unique opportunity. If he can absorb all he can from Davis and LeBron, learn the nuances of the game at this level, and stay focused, he has a chance to carve out a real role in the NBA.
We’ve seen Davis have a resurgence this season, averaging nearly 27 points, 12 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game. How critically important is that for the Lakers, especially with LeBron nearing the end of his playing days?
Howard Eisley:** Davis’s resurgence is crucial for the Lakers’ future. He’s their anchor. taking some of the pressure off LeBron allows the King to be more selective with his game, conserve his energy, and focus on making the right plays.
If Davis can stay healthy and maintain this level of play, the Lakers are going to be a tough team to beat.
Let’s open this up to our readers.What do you all think? Does armel Traoré have what it takes to become a regular contributor in the NBA? Did Davis make the right play by leaving the Pelicans? Share your thoughts in the commentscosmetic below!
