Anthony Davis gets real about Lakers without LeBron James: “Guys have to step up”
Anthony Davis dished on the Lakers' win over Portland Trailblazers in the absence of an injured LeBron James.
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Anthony Davis dishes on LeBron James' absence
The Los Angeles Lakers broke a frustrating losing streak with a 107-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. Despite missing key players LeBron James and Austin Reaves, the Lakers showcased resilience and team effort. Anthony Davis spearheaded the victory, delivering a dominant performance, but he made it clear that it was a collective effort that brought the win.
Speaking after the game, Anthony Davis mentioned the importance of stepping up in LeBron James’ absence. The Lakers relied on key contributions from role players to secure the win—especially as they missed a combined 39.7 points between James and Reaves—and their primary on-ball creators.
Next man up. That’s why we have a team. Other guys had to step up. Rui stepped up, and D-Lo stepped up. Guys have to step up when we have a guy like LeBron out.
Anthony Davis said postgame
Anthony Davis: "Guys have to step up when we have a guy like Bron out and guys took on the challenge tonight." pic.twitter.com/DLoI4MZiDm
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) December 9, 2024
With LeBron James being a game-time scratch due to left foot soreness, players like D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura rose to the occasion. Russell contributed 28 points and a career-high 14 assists off the bench, while Hachimura added 23 points and four steals.
Anthony Davis himself was nothing short of spectacular, putting up 30 points, 11 rebounds, 5 blocks, and 2 steals. On both ends of the court, he showcased the MVP-caliber play that the Lakers need, especially with their superstar sidelined. The victory not only ended a losing streak but also gave the team a much-needed confidence boost as they look ahead to climbing the ladder in a packed Western Conference.
LeBron James’ injury update
LeBron James missed the game due to discomfort in his left foot, an issue first noticed during the Lakers’ loss to the Miami Heat earlier in the week. It marked the first game James missed this season, despite the grueling minutes he’s been logging. Just two nights earlier, he played 43 minutes in an overtime loss to the Atlanta Hawks, putting up 39 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds.
The Lakers now have a rare four-day break before their next matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves. This downtime will hopefully help James recover and rejoin the team. Guard Austin Reaves also remained sidelined, missing his fifth straight game with a left pelvic contusion.
With their next game scheduled for Friday, the Lakers have a vital opportunity to regroup and take on a Timberwolves team reeling from Sunday’s loss against the Golden State Warriors. LeBron James’ health will be a major point of contention for the Lakers going forward as the miles continue to pile onto the 39-year-old superstar.
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Armaan Gupta
(292 Articles Published)