AD: Lakers' title chances are 'higher because we're all rested'

Anthony Davis expressed renewed confidence in being able to help deliver the Los Angeles Lakers a championship despite the unprecedented circumstances.

"I think it’s kind of the same. Obviously, we’ll miss (Avery Bradley), but we have guys that are healthy, guys that are ready to go," a fully healthy Davis told reporters on Thursday, including Spectrum SportsNet's Mike Trudell. "Actually I think our chances are higher because we’re all rested. It’s going to be who wants it more."

Veteran guard JR Smith replaced Bradley, who opted out of the season restart over concerns for his family's health.

While most of the heavy lifting will fall on the shoulders of Davis and LeBron James, the former touched on the impact some of the team's late in-season acquisitions - including Smith - will have once the campaign resumes in Orlando later this month.

"Markieff (Morris) showed he can be a big part of our team; Dion (Waiters) and JR (Smith) are gonna help us tremendously as well, with JR's ability to shoot, and Dion's ability to score and play make," Davis said, according to Trudell.

The Western Conference-leading Lakers are reportedly scheduled to arrive in Orlando on July 9 to begin training camp. The team will then face off against the Los Angeles Clippers on July 30, the opening night of the season restart.