Anthony Davis makes clear statement on injury status

The Los Angeles Lakers celebrated a thrilling victory over the Golden State Warriors on Christmas Day, surviving a late Steph Curry blast on a game-winning layup by Austin Reaves with one second left. The win was all the more impressive for LA because the team was largely without Anthony Davis, who had to retire early due to injury.

The All-NBA big man appeared to injure his ankle in the first quarter against the Dubs and left the game. He did not return and it was later reported that he had suffered a sprained ankle. Luckily for the Lakers, the ailment doesn’t appear to be serious, as the man himself said after the game.

According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Davis announced that he will be fine and plans to play the next time the Lakers take the court, which will be Saturday against the Sacramento Kings.

McMenamin also reported that Davis was considered fit for everyday use and was able to walk without support after an injury.

All in all, great news for the Lakers. Davis’ lengthy injury history makes it hard not to worry if he’s out, and Los Angeles (17-13) needs him to compete in the Western Conference.

LeBron James picked up the slack in his co-star’s absence, recording 31 points and 10 assists to give the shorthanded Lakers victory. It doesn’t sound like he’ll have to do that again Saturday against the Kings.