Doctors have ordered Anthony Davis to make a career-changing adjustment after he suffered a horrific injury.
The Dallas Mavericks star is one of the most talented players in the NBA and is preparing for the new season. Their first pre-season game is just over a week away, with four warm up games scheduled before the league begins.
The Mavericks will open their campaign against the San Antonio Spurs on October 22. But fans will notice something different about Davis this season.
He has been given a 'mandate from the doctor' to wear protective eyewear for the rest of his career. This comes after Davis required surgery during the offseason to repair a detached retina that could have serious health complications if left untreated.
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Davis has previously tried to avoid wearing glasses, but he did wear them for a short period during high school and with the Lakers in 2020.
How serious is a detached retina?
It is considered a very serious medical condition that can cause permanent blindness if not treated immediately. A detached retina occurs when the thin layer at the back of the eye stops working properly.
Symptoms include blurriness and shadowy vision, but if left untreated then it can lead to a permanent loss of sight.
Although Davis' operation was a success, doctors made it clear that there remains a long-term risk.
To protect him from future issues, he has been ordered to wear protective eyewear for the rest of his career. Speaking at the Dallas Mavericks media day, he confirmed that he will obey the doctor's instructions.
Davis said: “I want to make sure that my vision is protected, especially after what happened last season.
"It’s a small change that can have a huge impact on my health and career longevity.”
Although his eye was clearly red, he explained that it was caused by the eyedrops that he continues to use following his surgery.
He reassured fans that his vision remains clear and he is ready for the new season.
How common are goggles in the NBA?
Protecive eyewear has been used some of basketball's biggest stars
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar wore goggles throughout a legendary career, as he won six championships and six MVP awards.
Richard Hamilton also wore them and he lifted the championship in 2004 with the Detroit Pistons
Davis has already won one NBA Championship, with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020.
After a disappointing season for the Mavericks last year, Davis will be hoping for a return to the NBA finals this season.
Topics: Injury, NBA, Basketball
James Taylor