Reports: Anthony Davis listed as probable for playing against Spurs
LA Lakers superstar Anthony Davis has been listed as probable for Friday's game against the San Antonio Spurs amid ongoing back pain. It seems like it has been one thing after another for the eight-time All-Star as he and the Lakers attempt to get on the right track.
In the team's 115-105 loss to the Phoenix Suns, Davis put on an all-time performance, racking up one of the most impressive stat lines in recent memory. In 38 minuteson Tuesday, Davis scored 37 points, hauled down 21 boards and picked up five steals and five blocks. It added to his already impressive stretch over the last few games.
However, it was hard to ignore his obvious discomfort. Throughout the game, he could frequently be seen grimacing and holding his back. On one occasion, it appeared that Davis had injured his elbow going up for an alley-oop thrown to him by Russell Westbrook. Given his accumulation of minor injuries, one would expect him to be sidelined for long stretches.
But so far this season, that hasn't been the case. Davis has played in 15 of the team's 16 games, averaging 26.4 points, 12.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.7 steals and 2.1 blocks per game. Unfortunately for the Lakers, they have put together an abysmal 5-11 record that has seen them fall to 14th in the Western Conference.
Ahead of their game with the 13th-place San Antonio Spurs on Friday, it will be interesting to see whether Davis is held out or if he's on a minutes restriction.
Anthony Davis (back) probable for Friday.
Anthony Davis and the LA Lakers' ongoing injury woes
This season has seemed like a frustrating one for the LA Lakers and their fans. After acquiring Patrick Beverley this offseason and hiring Darvin Ham as coach, it seemed as though things were looking up for the team.
Although questions continued to arise in regard to former MVP Russell Westbrook's fit, Ham felt confident that he could make things work. With Westbrook coming off the bench now, his numbers have greatly improved, however, the team hasn't been able to make things click. So far, they have averaged one of the lowest 3-point percentages of any team in the league.
In addition, the team has also been left to battle without LeBron James, who has been sidelined with a lingering groin injury for six of the team's games. Fortunately, while Davis is listed as "probable" for the game on Friday versus the Spurs, James is expected to make his highly anticipated return.
Considering Davis has done an exceptional job of keeping the team in games without James, the fact that the two men will share the floor together is promising. Even without being at 100%, Davis has put on a show as he attempts to will the team to victory. With James back, it will be interesting to see whether the two can help the team go on a win streak and climb up the Western Conference ladder.
Below you can see some highlights from the last time the team played the Spurs.