Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis left the team’s Christmas Day matchup against the Golden State Warriors in the first quarter after rolling his ankle. Davis immediately went to the locker room, and his return remains uncertain as he is listed as questionable. The injury occurred when Davis appeared to step awkwardly while tracking the ball off the rim, without landing on anything.
Davis, who has been playing at an MVP-caliber level this season, was averaging 26.6 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game before the injury. Although he had cooled off a bit after a hot start, he was finding his rhythm again, and the Lakers were benefiting from his dominant play on both ends of the floor.
Something to watch for the rest of the game
Anthony Davis sprained his ankle looking the other way pic.twitter.com/9YzqY7XHiv
— Dr. Evan Jeffries, DPT (@GameInjuryDoc) December 26, 2024
This injury is concerning given Davis’ recent injury history. However, he has managed to stay healthy this season, playing 28 of LA’s 29 games so far, after a strong 76-game season last year. His durability has been a point of improvement, and fans are hoping this is just a minor ankle sprain that won’t sideline him for long.
If Davis is unable to return, the Lakers will likely lean on center Christian Koloko, who was signed this offseason. Koloko, a former Toronto Raptors rookie, has played limited minutes with LA but could see an increased role in Davis’ absence. Alternatively, the Lakers may opt for a smaller lineup, possibly featuring Rui Hachimura or Cam Reddish at the center position.
With depth being a weakness for the Lakers, any extended absence from Davis could prove costly for the team’s playoff aspirations. Updates on Davis’ injury status will be provided as more information becomes available.