Anthony Davis Reportedly Turned Down Max Contract Extension From Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers could find themselves in a financial tug of war with their newly-acquired superstar.

Former New Orleans Pelicans power forward Anthony Davis reportedly declined the Lakers' offer of a max contract extension, and intends to test the market as an unrestricted free agent in the 2020 offseason.

Davis, currently in the middle of his first season in Los Angeles, is averaging 27.7 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game, numbers which are right on par with his averages in New Orleans despite sharing the floor with LeBron James.

Davis previously hinted at the possibility of returning to his hometown of Chicago and playing for the Bulls, but the 6-10 big man is ultimately still expected to sign a max contract in Los Angeles. He can make more money signing a contract in free agency as opposed to being extended by Rob Pelinka right now, which is likely the motivation behind his decision.

Let's not forget, Davis made a financial sacrifice for the Lakers when he first joined the team, waiving his trade kicker in order to free up a max contract spot.

All signs point to Davis returning to the Lakers on a max deal, but you can't rule out the possibility of him bolting somewhere else until pen is put to paper on a max contract.