Perhaps the best indicator of a transformative NBA talent lies in how he raises the play of those around him. After leading the league in player efficiency rating in his age-21 season, Anthony Davis' ability to erase doubts about the Pelicans' ascent as a Western Conference contender this offseason exceeded even his prodigious skill at erasing opponents' shots.
Lackluster defense? Right, but Davis.
New systems being installed on both ends? No, worries -- Davis.
Good-but-not-great running mates? Still, Davis.
A firm first-round nudge to the Warriors on their way to a title and the arrival of Alvin Gentry from said champions' much-ballyhooed coaching staff added momentum, yet all expectations of the dawn of a new era in New Orleans can be traced back to the supremely skilled big man with a summit still shrouded by the clouds.