The Lakers Struggle in their Blowout Loss to the 76ers as Anthony Davis Leaves Due to Injury

Published by Shivani Bhore on

Anthony Davis’ injury during Tuesday’s crushing defeat by a diminished Philadelphia 76ers team was a major blow to the Los Angeles Lakers.

With 2:20 remaining in the first quarter, with the Lakers ahead 20–17, Davis left the game due to a pain in his abdominal muscles. After his exit, the 76ers, who were without vital players Paul George and Joel Embiid, grabbed control of the game, leading by 16 points in the second quarter and winning 118-104.

The Lakers’ four-game winning streak, which includes wins against the Celtics and Warriors, came to an end with this loss. Without knowing Davis’ health, the club will now play the Wizards, Knicks, and Clippers on their five-game road trip before hosting the Warriors on February 6.

How long is Davis Anticipated to be out of the game?

After a timeout, Davis left the game and walked to the locker room, clutching his stomach. Because of a sprain in his abdominal muscles, the Lakers initially considered him questionable to return.

The team then announced that he would not be able to play in the second half. There was no immediate word on when Davis will be returning. It was unclear exactly how and when the damage happened. After the game, Lakers head coach JJ Redick told reporters that there were no new developments regarding Davis’ health.

The Lakers Struggle after Davis Leaves

Davis’ absence presented the Lakers with several difficulties, especially defensively. The 76ers led 73-57 at the half after dominating the second quarter and outscoring the Lakers 48-32. The 76ers had grown their lead to 99-76 by the end of the third quarter.

After both teams replaced their starters, the Lakers were able to cut the gap, but they were unable to make the game competitive again.

In his ten minutes on the court, Davis only managed four points, two rebounds, and one steal. He had been playing incredibly well before this game, averaging 32.8 points, 15 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game during the Lakers’ winning run of four games.

LeBron James emerged as the Lakers’ main offensive weapon while Davis was out, tallying 31 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists. Dalton Knecht, a rookie, made five of his eight shots from beyond the arc to contribute 24 points.

The 76ers outperformed a Lakers team without its best defender, so the impact was negligible. The Lakers are now seventh in the Western Conference with a 26-19 record after this loss. Given how closely the playoff candidates are clustered in the standings, Davis’ injury might have a big impact on the postseason race.

The Sixers are Undermanned, and Maxey Leads them

Tyrese Maxey led the 76ers’ offensive attack, scoring 43 points and making all nine of his free throw attempts in addition to converting 15 of 26 field goals. Ricky Council added 14 points and seven rebounds off the bench, and Kelly Oubre Jr. had a substantial contribution with 20 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. By pushing the Lakers into 22 turnovers and taking a decisive 91-72 edge in field goal attempts, the 76ers took advantage of their defensive strength.

This effort took place without Embiid, who missed his 32nd game of the season for a variety of reasons after missing his 12th straight game due to foot and knee issues. It’s unclear when he will return.

The 76ers also revealed on Tuesday that George was out because of a tendon issue in his left pinkie finger. This injury occurred during Saturday’s victory over the Bulls. Head coach Nick Nurse told reporters that George is presently regarded as day-to-day, even though his return is also questionable.