"I know they say one player can't make a difference but look at the difference when Conrad returned for the Auckland game after missing Sydney," Davies said, referring to the fact the 12-all draw with the Wallabies in Sydney was followed by a 51-20 victory.
Davies has been waiting to hear what name Smith and wife Lee-Anne have given their son. However she is unlikely to for a while as the couple have decided to keep the name private.
Something Smith, 32, isn't keeping private is his level of respect for the Pumas as he prepares for his 79th test.
"I've always respected them but more so now because of the type of rugby they play," Smith said.
He agreed the gap was closing between the two countries and eventually the Pumas, who have drawn one of their 18 tests against New Zealand, would beat them.
"I don't like to admit it but it's only a matter of time and hopefully it won't happen on my watch," Smith said.
He pointed out the ABs have spoken about their recent trend against the Pumas, which has seen close encounters in the first test and more convincing wins in the second.
"There have been times when we've had to spend 80 minutes playing against them to learn their style. We're keen to make amends this week.
"Their set piece is very good and we've simulated trainings to cope with their inside-out defence," Smith said.
Although All Blacks coach Steve Hansen won't announce his team until Thursday morning, Smith is expected to be joined in the midfield by longtime partner Ma'a Nonu, who has recovered from his shoulder injury which ruled him out of the Auckland test. It will be their 54th test together.
When quizzed on what makes them such a good combo, Smith said it was because of the experience gained from playing that many tests together as well as games together for Wellington and the Hurricanes.
"We know what we're looking for and we're able to play off each other."
Needless to say, Davies is confident Smith will deliver on Saturday night ... with or without Nonu.
