Tue Dec 02 05:50:00 UTC 2025: Davis Returns, But Lakers Triumph Over Mavericks in High-Scoring Affair
LOS ANGELES – Anthony Davis made his highly anticipated return to Crypto.com Arena Friday night, but the Los Angeles Lakers spoiled the reunion, defeating the Dallas Mavericks 129-119. Davis, sidelined for nearly a month with a left calf strain, contributed 12 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 blocks in 28 minutes for the Mavericks.
The Lakers immediately put the pressure on Davis. “They were kind of double-teaming every time I caught the ball,” Davis said. Despite the attention, Davis shot efficiently, going 6-of-10 from the field.
The crowd welcomed Davis warmly during pregame introductions, marking his first game in Los Angeles since the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers. Doncic put on his usual star performance, tallying 35 points and 11 assists, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win.
However, the night belonged to Lakers guard Austin Reaves, who exploded for 38 points on 12-of-15 shooting. Postgame, Reaves exchanged jerseys with Davis. “He’s one of the best players to ever touch a basketball,” Reaves said of Davis, attributing his own development to Davis’ mentorship.
Davis’ time in Dallas has been riddled with injuries, limiting him to just 15 games since the trade. Despite his eagerness to return sooner, team medical staff took a cautious approach, delaying his comeback until they were confident he wouldn’t risk further injury.
The Mavericks’ struggles continue, falling to 5-15 after the loss. Davis will sit out Saturday’s game against the Los Angeles Clippers as the team continues to manage his workload.
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