Sat Jan 04 03:30:00 UTC 2025: **Lakers’ Davis to Play Against Hawks Despite Ankle Sprain**
ATLANTA, GA – Despite a left ankle sprain, Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis will play in Friday night’s game against the Atlanta Hawks, the team announced. Davis sat out Thursday’s win against the Portland Trail Blazers, allowing young Lakers centers Jaxson Hayes and Christian Koloko to see significant playing time. While Hayes’ minutes were limited, Koloko impressed with 8 points and 8 rebounds. The Lakers’ victory also saw Portland’s center Deandre Ayton limited in his minutes, seemingly impacted by the Lakers’ defensive effort.
The Lakers’ injury report remains lengthy, with Christian Wood and Jarred Vanderbilt still sidelined due to knee and foot surgeries, respectively. The Hawks also have several players unavailable due to injury and assignment, including Kobe Bufkin, Larry Nance Jr., Cody Zeller, and Mouhamed Gueye.
The Lakers have been playing well recently, winning seven of their last ten games, boosted by recent acquisitions Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. The team’s improved depth will be tested in the back-to-back game against the Hawks. The game marks a crucial contest for both teams as they battle for playoff positioning.
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