Anthony Davis back injury update: Lakers star suffers back spasms, confirms if he’ll play Game 5

In a dominant performance during one half, Anthony Davis racked up 18 points before exiting the game with back spasms in the 3rd quarter.

The Los Angeles Lakers buried the Portland Trail Blazers defence with an avalanche right from quarter 1. Anthony Davis was a crucial part of how they took a 41-23 lead in the period, scoring 16 points. But Davis slowed down from the second quarter and it seemed that he’d had some injury issue looking at his movements.

🔥🔥🔥 #LakeShow 🔥🔥🔥@AntDavis23: 16 pts, 3 ast, 2 blk@CaldwellPope: 10 pts (4/5 FG) pic.twitter.com/3ijTD820d1

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) August 25, 2020

The Lakers put up an extraordinary 80-point first half against the Blazers. Their offense was firing on all cylinders in a manner hitherto unseen in this year’s playoffs.

Anthony Davis goes off court with back spasms

This theory was confirmed when AD did not return to court after the Trail Blazers’ first timeout in the 3rd quarter, when they were down by 38 points.

Anthony Davis (back spasms) won’t return vs. Blazers pic.twitter.com/tvYwlOrEXh

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) August 25, 2020

Also Read: Lakers take decision on extending Anthony Davis’ contract next season

It is expected that this was a precautionary measure by Frank Vogel. Anthony Davis is the most important member of the Lakers defense. His absence in latter rounds will cost them dearly. It was therefore only right that they rested him in a game that was already in the bag.

Will Anthony Davis play Game 5?

The Lakers star confirmed in a post-game interview that he will indeed play game 5, as his injury is not that serious and should heal in the next day or so.

In the walkoff interview on @SpectrumSN, @AntDavis23 said his back is fine, and he’s 100% going to be ready to play in Game 5. He said the coaching/training staff was being extra careful considering the big lead.

— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) August 25, 2020

Anthony Davis played less than 18 minutes in the game and still ended up with 18 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, a steal and 2 blocks. He was crucial in keeping the Blazers’ offense in check with weakside help defense. He also swished 8 of his 10 free throw attempts.

The whole city of Los Angeles and the LA Lakers are celebrating Mamba Day today on 24th August. Kobe Bryant’s birthday