Anthony Davis’ Return From Injury For Lakers Likely Just Days Away

One of the Los Angeles Lakers’ superstars could make his way back onto the court this week. Anthony Davis’ return appears to be only days away as he finishes up his recovery from a calf injury that has cost him more than two months of playing time.

Davis won’t be active in Monday night’s game against the Utah Jazz. The eight-time All-Star is expected to play on Los Angeles’ subsequent four-game road trip, which starts Thursday against the Dallas Mavericks.

The Lakers and Mavericks are scheduled to face off in consecutive contests in Dallas Thursday and Saturday night. There’s a good chance Davis will appear in one of those games.

Los Angeles will finish up its road trip with games against the Orlando Magic on April 26 and the Washington Wizards on April 28. LeBron James is reportedly eyeing a return from his high ankle sprain closer to the end of the month.

Davis last played on Feb. 14. A calf injury and Achille tendinosis have sidelined the 28-year-old for 29 straight games. The Lakers have gone 14-15 during that span.

Los Angeles has managed to keep its head above water without its top players, allowing the team to be cautious with both Davis and James. James last played on March 20, and the Lakers have managed to maintain a top-five record in the Western Conference. Los Angeles is 4.5 games ahead of Dallas, who currently owns the top seed in the play-in tournament.

The Lakers beat the Jazz in overtime Saturday night, winning their seventh game in 12 tries. L.A. hasn’t lost two straight games since March 25.

The focus has been on making sure Davis is completely healthy for the postseason. Davis had a strong showing during the Lakers’ 2020 championship run.

Davis is averaging 22.5 points, 8.4 rebounds and 3.0 assists in 23 games during the 2020-21 season.