Mavericks’ Anthony Davis Targets Friday Return vs. Lakers
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Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis said he hopes to play Friday night when the Mavericks visit the Los Angeles Lakers in the clubs’ final group game of the Emirates NBA Cup at Crypto.com Arena.
The three-time All-Star has been limited to five appearances this season because of a right calf injury. Dallas enters the matchup at 5-14, while Los Angeles, already through to the tournament’s knockout stage, sits 13-4 and second in the Western Conference standings.
Davis, speaking after practice, noted that the Mavericks also face the L.A. Clippers on Saturday and that team officials do not expect him to suit up on consecutive nights.
“Is that a real question? You know what game I want to play,” Davis said about choosing between the two contests. “We’ll have a conversation with the medical and coaching staff and see what makes the most sense. Obviously I’d like to play Friday, but the main thing is just getting back on the floor, whether it’s Friday or Saturday.”
The 32-year-old was acquired from Los Angeles in a February trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers. Doncic is averaging MVP-level numbers, helping the Lakers lock up their group before Friday’s tip-off.
Dallas, meanwhile, dismissed general manager Nico Harrison earlier this week. In the aftermath, Doncic was asked if he might return to the Mavericks someday and replied that his focus remains on the Lakers.
The Mavericks have proceeded cautiously with Davis because calf problems can escalate into more serious lower-leg injuries. His status for Friday will be determined after the team evaluates how he responds to practices leading up to the back-to-back.
Source: LakersNation.com
