All eyes are on Anthony Davis as the Los Angeles Lakers prepare to host the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday night. Despite dealing with a nagging left plantar fasciitis injury, the 9-time NBA All-Star is considered probable to play.
Davis aggravated the ailment during the Lakers’ loss to the Detroit Pistons on Monday after a bad landing on his left leg in the fourth quarter. The injury has plagued the 31-year-old superstar since last season and was an issue he managed through the summer with Team USA at the Paris Olympics.
“It will be crucial for the Lakers to have him on the floor,” said NBA insider Tom Jones. “LA went 1-4 on their recent road trip and can’t afford too many more losses in the stacked Western Conference.”
A probable status means Davis is more likely to play than sit, barring any setbacks before tipoff. The Lakers will certainly need his production against the 76ers, who will be without All-Star center Joel Embiid due to suspension and guard Tyrese Maxey due to injury.
Davis’ History Against The 76ers
In 18 career games against the 76ers, Davis is averaging an impressive 24.1 points, 10.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 3.0 blocks per contest. However, he had a relatively subpar offensive performance in the two-game season series last year, averaging 20.0 points on 56.7% shooting.
“Despite the lower scoring numbers, Davis made his presence felt on the defensive end,” explained Jones. “He pulled down 15.0 rebounds per game and blocked 2.5 shots on average against the Sixers.” The Lakers and 76ers split the season series last year, with each team winning at home. However, without Embiid and Maxey, the Lakers will have an advantage in their quest to recover.
How to Watch Fans can catch the Lakers-76ers matchup on national television, as ESPN will be broadcasting the game live from the Crypto.com Arena. Coverage will also be available on Spectrum SportsNet for Lakers fans in the local area and NBC Sports Philadelphia for those tuning in from the East Coast.
The game will begin at 10:00 p.m. EST on Friday night. NBA League Pass offers online streaming of the contest for those outside the United States. As the Lakers continue to navigate a challenging start to the season, all eyes will be on Anthony Davis and his health. With the team desperate for a win, the 9-time All-Star’s status will be crucial in determining the outcome against the short-handed 76ers.