The Lakers managed to snap a three-game losing streak with a 107-98 victory over the Blazers tonight. Although the win relieved fans and the team, it also raised concerns about Anthony Davis’s health. Delivering a powerful performance with 30 points, 11 rebounds, and five blocks, ‘The Brow’ reminded everyone of his impact on both ends of the court. However, his post-game comments about injuries and recovery sparked plenty of intrigue. And a few chuckles.
Davis, who is as injury-prone as they come, acknowledged that he was “banged up with a little bit of injuries and things just bothering me.” However, the Lakers big man welcomed the rare luxury of a four-day break in the schedule, noting its value for some essential healing.
“I have never, in my career, had at a stretch, where we didn’t play for four days. So, it’s kinda new,” AD said with a grin. Touchwood though. “But I know that will be beneficial for us to kinda get back in the gym.” His candid admission about nagging issues practically underscored the physical toll of carrying the team, particularly, with LeBron James sidelined for the first time this season with a left foot soreness.
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Aside from Bron, Austin Reaves was also ‘out’ with a pelvic injury. So, it’s no wonder that on paper, this looked like a matchup that would see Portland coming out with a win. However, led by Anthony Davis, Rui Hachimura and D’Angelo Russell had other plans. One that resulted in season-highs for the latter two and an encouraging victory for the team!
But it seems the reigning NBA Cup champion has figured out another benefit from this four-day break.
Anthony Davis believes a little distance makes the heart (and body) heal
As Davis elaborated on the four-day rest period, his comments took a light-hearted turn. “You know, [it also helps] get some time away from each other,” Davis joked, referring to his teammates, including his best bud, James. While the sentiment was meant humorously, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say it is a topic that can very well spark plenty of conversation about team dynamics and rigors of the NBA grind.
Of course, with Anthony Davis, the 31-year-old was naturally hinting at the value of stepping back to recharge. Both mentally and physically. Given their tough stretch, the Purple & Gold needs all the recovery it can get. And not just to heal their bodies, but to regroup as a unit.
Before the cheeky remark, though, the 9x All-Star did have a more serious approach. “For now, we got four days to kinda recover. We got guys out. Guys banged up. So you get time to recover, time to practice, get ready for Minnesota. But we gonna use these days to get better, obviously and also gotta be smart with letting our bodies heal.”
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Anthony Davis: “Guys have to step up when we have a guy like Bron out and guys took on the challenge tonight.” pic.twitter.com/DLoI4MZiDm
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) December 9, 2024
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As you might already know, Los Angeles heads into this mini hiatus with some momentum after stellar outings from AD, D’Lo, and Hachimura. But as the veteran forward, noted, the rest period isn’t only about healing injuries; it’s also about recalibrating.
As the team regroups, one thing is clear—whether through dominant performances or lighthearted jabs about personal space, Anthony Davis is leading the charge toward a brighter chapter for the Lakers.
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Can Anthony Davis carry the Lakers without LeBron, or is his health too big a question mark?
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