Former Kentucky Wildcats in the NBA: Just how good is Anthony Davis?

Mar 26, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) is fouled by Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin (32) after securing a rebound following a free throw attempt during the fourth quarter of a game at the Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans defeated the Clippers 98-96. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Blake Griffin

Davis and Griffin are actually very similar players on the court. Both have ridiculous athleticism for their size, both have surprisingly good ball handling abilities. They can both also dunk anything, notably any lob pass, that is thrown their way. Both put an a very entertaining show when they play, two very exciting players to watch.

Offensively: Blake Griffin

I give the slight edge on offense to Blake. Though Davis has become a freak of nature offensively, Blake is simply not of this world. What he does with the basketball reminds me a lot of Charles Barkley, a guy that is just plain mean when he plays and is not afraid to rise up and pummel you with monster dunks. Blake’s explosiveness is unmatched, and has worked hard to make his overall game hard for anybody 6-foot-10 250 pounds to match. At times he looks like Chris Paul with how he can handle the ball and even put moves on defenders, then can either attack the rim or pull up with a well improved jump shot. Davis simply can’t quite match that yet, at least not right now.

Defensively: Anthony Davis

Once again, Davis has the edge defensively. While I believe Griffin can be a great perimeter defender, it’s just not enough to match what Davis can do on defense. One thing I have noticed, however, is that Griffin can be better in terms of steals. Davis still wins with a few other fundamentals. His athletic ability and elusiveness along with his court vision put him over the top, it allows him to break opposing transition offense and even block three point attempts.