"Anthony Davis is Larry Bird now" - Fans in awe of Lakers star making 4 3-pointers in first quarter vs Suns

Basketball fans were in awe and the Lakers fans buzzed with excitement as Anthony Davis lit up from beyond the arc during Thursday’s preseason game against the Phoenix Suns. The Lakers center sank four 3-pointers in the first quarter alone, sending the crowd inside the Footprint Center in Phoenix, and even LeBron James, into a frenzy of excitement.

After watching Davis' scorching first-quarter performance, one fan humorously compared the one-time NBA champion to the legendary Larry Bird, while also praising Lakers coach JJ Redick for his role in Davis' improved shooting.

"Anthony Davis is Larry Bird now, give JJ Redick a raise immediately."

"JJ just unlocked a monster," commented one user.

"Gonna remind everyone why he's a top 5 talent in the world. Elite on both sides of the ball," wrote another user.

One fan claimed that if Davis can consistently hit shots from beyond the arc, the Lakers would become a formidable opponent for any team in the league.

"If AD can get his 3 point shot back teams gonna be dangerous."

"if his shot is back we winning da chip idgaf," wrote another X user.

After witnessing the nine-time All-Star's shooting display, one user called on the Lakers' front office to make trades and strengthen the roster around Anthony Davis and LeBron James.

"Rob and @JeanieBuss have the best duo in the league and are wasting them away ! MAKE TRADES AND GET THEM HELP."

Davis put up 15 points in the first quarter, shooting 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. The former Kentucky star also contributed five rebounds and two assists during the period, showcasing his all-around play.

JJ Redick wants Anthony Davis to take more 3-point shots

At the Lakers' media day, Anthony Davis shared that coach JJ Redick has been pushing him to take more shots from beyond the arc. Since his impressive 2019-2020 season, where he averaged 3.5 3-point attempts per game, Davis hasn't been as consistent from long range.

“Obviously we have one of the best shooters to ever play in our head coach, JJ,” Davis told reporters. “So he has been on me all summer about shooting 3s. Even in the Olympics when I would make a 3, he would text me and say that’s what I want to see and things like that. But for him, it’s definitely gonna be shooting more 3s."

Last season, Davis attempted just 1.4 3-pointers per game, shooting a disappointing 27.1% from beyond the arc.