Anthony Davis wants to be remembered for more than personal accolades and statistics. That’s the root of his desire to leave New Orleans, the superstar forward told reporters in his first public comments since requesting a trade from the Pelicans on Tuesday.

“It’s more about legacy over money,” Davis said, according to the New Orleans Times Picayune. “When I’m done playing or leave this earth, it’ll be about my legacy.”

The 25-year-old, six-time All-Star has been out since injuring his finger on Jan. 18. The New York Times reported the Pelicans may keep the multi-talented 6-foot-10 big man sidelined to protect him from injury, so as not to hurt his trade value. But Davis said he hopes to get back on the court this year if New Orleans allows him.

“I’m going to remain professional,” Davis said. “I’m under contract. Until my time ends here, that’s what I’ll do.”

The Pelicans have until the Feb. 7 trade deadline to deal the star, otherwise they can wait until the offseason. Davis said the plan wasn’t for the trade request to be made public, until a reporter got the wind of the news and called his agent, Rich Paul. The NBA fined Davis $50,000 for Paul making the request public.

Davis reportedly is focused on joining the Lakers and LeBron James, Paul’s childhood friend and client. The Knicks are also a potential destination. Davis, however, said the Pelicans have not been given a team or teams for him to be dealt to.

In six years with New Orleans, Davis has reached the playoffs just twice, winning one series, and the Pelicans are 23-29 this year, likely headed for the lottery.

“It’s my time,” Davis said. “I feel like I gave this city, the organization, fans everything I felt like I could. Don’t know how long I’m gonna play this game. People’s careers are short. I feel like it’s my time to move on.”