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Jan 27, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3) and Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during a timeout against the Charlotte Hornets during the first quarter at the Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
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Jan 27, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3) and Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during a timeout against the Charlotte Hornets during the first quarter at the Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
The Los Angeles Lakers led in the first quarter when facing a heavily deprived Philadelphia 76ers team. Then, the dreadful moment happened. Just a day after recording the fifth 40-20 game of his career, Anthony Davis exited the game in just ten minutes. He held his stomach as he walked to the locker room. It was later revealed to be an abdominal strain. From there, LeBron James and the Lakers lost their way, losing the game by 14.
However, the worries weren’t about their four-game win streak concluded. Fans grew anxious about Davis’ condition after his sudden exit from the contest. So far, there is no update on whether the daunting forward will miss the game or not. All that’s there is some positivity from LeBron James.
In Davis’ absence, the Akron Hammer took the responsibility of being the beacon for the Los Angeles Lakers. He dropped 31 points and 9 assists. However, his effort was futile, with eight turnovers and his favorite target unavailable. After the game, LeBron James revealed he didn’t realize Davis wouldn’t take further part until “the second quarter when he didn’t come back in his regular minutes”.
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Jan 28, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3) knocks the ball from Philadelphia 76ers guard Kelly Oubre Jr. (9) during the first quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
However, as far as his concern goes, there isn’t much. “I think he will be fine,” LeBron James confidently claimed.
Health has been a concern for Anthony Davis in the past. Notably, Charles Barkley was among the people who severely trolled him for his inability to stay fit. That’s changed since last year. AD has only missed nine games since last season. Although an abdominal strain could keep him out for a few games, rest assured, the nine-time All-Star will push for as early a return to action as possible.
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Turnovers create the downfall for LeBron James and Co
Although Davis was forced out of the game early, the Lakers still had the talent to finish off the game. Moreover, the 76ers missed Paul George and Joel Embiid because of injuries. Hence, it was more of an even battlefield. But with the support of the home crowd and some of the Super Bowl-bound Eagles courtside, Philly didn’t disappoint.
Once again, Tyrese Maxey took full control of the game. The reigning Most Improved Player dropped 43 points while making 57.7% of his shots from the floor. It was his 11th straight game, dropping 25+ points. In addition, Kelly Oubre Jr. stayed on course of being a reliable second option, dropping 20 points.
However, even though marred by injuries, tonight’s loss was a result of excessive errors from the Lakers. They are usually one of the best teams in terms of ball security. But with 22 turnovers tonight, they shot themselves in the foot. Furthermore, with Davis’ interior presence gone, the 76ers took advantage of second-chance opportunities.
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They grabbed eight more offensive rebounds and scored 46 points in the paint to sink the steaming Lakers team. It was a disappointing result for the 17-time champions. But with several of their rotation players absent, the result won’t hurt as much. There is currently no update on Anthony Davis’ injury. But if it is a minor ailment that forces him out for their next game against the Wizards, LeBron James and Co. won’t sweat. They have a 2-1 record this season without their engine.
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Can the Lakers survive without Anthony Davis, or is their season doomed without their star forward?
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Can the Lakers survive without Anthony Davis, or is their season doomed without their star forward?
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