Sat Feb 08 20:50:00 UTC 2025: **Mavericks’ Davis Exits Debut Game Early with Groin and Quad Tightness**
DALLAS (AP) — Anthony Davis’s highly anticipated Dallas Mavericks debut ended prematurely Saturday night. Despite a strong performance with 26 points, 16 rebounds, seven assists, and three blocks in 31 minutes against the Houston Rockets, the newly acquired forward left the game late in the third quarter due to lower-body tightness in his groin and quadriceps. The Mavericks ultimately won 116-105.
Davis, who hadn’t played since January 28th due to an abdominal strain, attributed his early exit to this lingering injury, insisting the latest issue isn’t serious. The game marked his first appearance since the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. Fellow trade acquisition Max Christie contributed 23 points for Dallas.
Despite the positive start for Davis, the Mavericks faced some challenges. P.J. Washington sprained his right ankle and missed the second half. The Rockets, led by Alperen Sengun’s 30 points and Jalen Green’s 24, mounted a late comeback, cutting the Mavericks’ lead to four points late in the fourth quarter, before Dallas secured the victory. The Mavericks set a franchise record with 18 blocks.
While Davis received a warm welcome from the home crowd, some fans continued to protest the Doncic trade outside the arena. The Mavericks’ next game is Monday against Sacramento, while the Rockets face Toronto on Sunday.
First Piper 