RJ Davis did RJ Davis-type things in his NBA Preseason debut on Friday night.
The former UNC basketball star connected on five of his eight shots from the floor, finishing the night with 14 points and a steal over 18 minutes of action. Some highlights of Davis' outing can be seen below:
RJ Davis 14 Points, 1 Three, 1 Steal full highlight vs Suns I 2025 NBA Preseason pic.twitter.com/MwXJXw6D3g
— Hoops Showtime (@HoopsShowtime12) October 4, 2025
The Lakers went onto lose the game to the Phoenix Suns, but it was a positive night for the former ACC Player of the Year. After the game, Lakers head coach JJ Redick, better known as the former Duke Blue Devil, named Davis as one of his four players that stood out in a positive way.
While his last name sadly isn't James (who had an outstanding performance in which he connected on a staggering 1–12 shots from the floor in 24 minutes of action and is still guaranteed a roster spot even when it's not deserved), Davis is making his case to earn a roster spot with the Lakers for the upcoming season. While scoring is his top attribute, Davis has proven his ability to be a steady ball handler and facilitator, as he can help create offense for others when the ball is in his hands.
With the current style of the NBA being fast-paced and heavily focused on perimeter shooting, Davis clearly has the skill set to earn a roster spot. If he can continue to play at this pace, it will be difficult for the Lakers to not make room for him in some type of capacity, even if it's a two-way contract that allows him to spend time with the G-League squad as well as the Lakers.
Even though he wears No. 55 currently with the Lakers, the motto "Why Not 4" always holds true. Davis just continues to find ways to prove everyone wrong, as his hard work and dedication are paying off.