Is Anthony Davis playing tonight against Atlanta Hawks? Latest injury update for LA Lakers star center (Jan. 3)

Anthony Davis is uncertain to play against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday. The LA Lakers star center was ruled out on Thursday with a left ankle sprain. He sustained the injury on Christmas Day against the Golden State Warriors. Davis exited that contest after seven minutes. However, it didn't limit him from playing the next two games against the Sacramento Kings and Cleveland Cavaliers.

JJ Redick said the Lakers were cautious with his injury. Davis has played 31 out of 33 games this season, working his way through multiple ailments. With LA playing a relatively easy opponent in the Portland Trail Blazers, the Lakers made a smart choice of resting him. Redick added Davis had some 'lingering soreness' in that leg.

Davis was also dealing with a left foot sprain, which has bothered him since the 2023-24 season. He played in the Olympics with Team USA in the offseason despite the injury and continued to suit up for the Lakers through preseason and the regular season.

Since the Lakers were playing a back-to-back, it seems like they preferred if Anthony Davis suited up against the Hawks over the Trail Blazers. He might play on Friday.

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Anthony Davis stats vs. Atlanta Hawks

Anthony Davis has averaged 21.4 points, 9.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 2.2 blocks against the Atlanta Hawks in 18 games, winning 10 times. He had one of his best games this season when the LA Lakers visited the Hawks on Dec. 6. Davis had 38 points, 10 rebounds, eight assists and two blocks on 15 of 27 shots.

The Lakers nearly won the contest, but late-game offensive miscues in regulation and overtime cost them. They lost 134-132 after Trae Young hit the game-winner from distance.

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How to watch Atlanta Hawks vs. LA Lakers game?

NBA TV will nationally televise the Atlanta Hawks vs. LA Lakers game, while FanDuel Sports Network Southeast and Spectrum SportsNet will provide coverage in local regions. Other interested viewers can catch live action online via NBA League Pass. The game will begin at 10:30 p.m. ET at the Crypto.com Arena, the Lakers' homecourt.