Let’s be honest with ourselves here: if Alexis Ajinca received the same minutes and leeway that Anthony Davis receives, he would put up comparable stats.
Ajinca have it all: length, a smooth jumper out to the Euro three, a couple usable post moves, a rad tattoo, defensive acumen, and, most of all, Frenchness. His conditioning might still be a problem, but being 7’2″ means lots of energy is exerted doing anything at all, so I can’t hold that against him.
Tonight we all witnessed what can happen when Alexis is unfettered. A career best 24 points, including the game-tying and game-winning baskets in the final minute. Plus the adoration of ESPN commentators, one of which may not have ever seen him play before and is thus totally enamored.
Vive la France!