LeBron James and Anthony Davis explain how they’re pushing each other, trying to build chemistry on and off the floor

Outside of a handful of games in the 2012 Olympics and a few minutes in the two most recent NBA All-Star games, LeBron James and Anthony Davis haven’t spent too much time playing basketball together. However, that wasn’t evident when the Los Angeles Lakers opened their preseason against the Golden State Warriors on Saturday.

In just one half, James and Davis combined for 37 points, 13 rebounds, 10 assists and 2 steals. Three of James’ game-high 8 assists were to Davis, who scored a game-high 22 points in 18:25.

They were really good, and they only plan to get better from here.

After Saturday’s win, Davis told reporters on Spectrum SportsNet that he and James are in constant communication as they try and learn how to effectively play with each other:

“We’re just trying to figure it out. Even when we’re off the floor watching film, or even when we’re on the floor we’re talking. Or if he’s on the floor and I’m on the bench, or vice-versa, we just try to help each other out... The more we can do that, the easier the game is going to be for us and our teammates. So any time we’ve got an opportunity to learn, that’s good for us.”

James admitted that building chemistry with Davis is a little easier because of how well they know each other, but that doesn’t mean he’s taking it any less seriously, In fact, it might mean the opposite to James:

“I don’t think it’s ever easy to build, but I think it’s going very good because of the relationship we had before becoming teammates. We’re able to be straightforward with one another, not sugarcoat anything and not take anything personal, being able to take constructive criticism. He gets in my ear, I get in his ear and it’s all for the better, trying to make each other better and challenge each other, which will ultimately be better for the team.”

Of all the dynamic duos in the NBA, James, a 6’9” point forward with 3-point range, and Davis, a 6’10” shot-blocker that plays like a guard, might be the most dynamic.

Not only does that make it easy for them to play with each other, but it also makes it easier for their supporting cast to fill their roles. In other words, as James and Davis continue to grow together, so will the Lakers.

For the rest of the league, that’s probably horrifying. For Lakers fans, it’s really exciting.

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