Why did Anthony Davis exit game vs Warriors? Latest update as Lakers star gets ruled out on Christmas Day

Anthony Davis suffered an ankle injury in the first quarter of Wednesday's Christmas Day showdown between the LA Lakers and Golden State Warriors. The nine-time All-Star rolled his left ankle, looking the other way as he walked towards the glass on a possession.

He had only played seven minutes, going scoreless after missing his first three attempts. Davis had two rebounds and a steal to his name before he left the floor. The Lakers star tried to re-enter the game but exited to the locker room from the tunnel itself.

Here's the video of Davis' injury:

It seemed like a mild ankle sprain at first, but the extended absence could be concerning for his prospects of returning to the game. The Lakers survived his absence momentarily, turning an eight-point deficit into a nine-point lead.

According to the LA Lakers, Anthony Davis was questionable to return with three minutes left at halftime. However, with "AD" taking more time to return, the Lakers eventually ruled him out with just under two minutes left in the game.

The Lakers led 84-73 when they made the announcement.

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Lakers win despite Anthony Davis' early exit, star provides injury update

Surprisingly, the LA Lakers survived Anthony Davis' early injury exit on Wednesday. LeBron James and Austin Reaves led the way in his absence. James dropped 31 points and 10 assists on 54.5% shooting, while Reaves finished with a 26-point triple-double and the game-winner.

Rui Hachimura's 18, Max Christie's 16 and Dalton Knecht's 13 points proved vital, too. The Lakers went small and relied on their shot-making to get the win in Davis' absence.

The perimeter defense stood tall, with the interior left exposed without "AD". It was critical to the team's success after a Steph Curry blitz in the clutch nearly saw the Lakers blow a well-deserved win. Nevertheless, Christie, Reaves and James maintained their composure to bring the win home.

After the game ended, the attention turned to Anthony Davis' injury, and the Lakers star provided a positive update.

"I’ll be OK," Davis told ESPN. I am playing against SAC on Saturday."

It was probably in the best interests of the Lakers to keep Davis from playing on an injured leg and get rest ahead of a crucial stretch. LA has a legitimate chance to string together a solid winning run with an upcoming four-game home stretch against multiple opponents who are .500 or below.

They face the 13-17 Kings on Saturday before games against the league-best 26-4 Cavaliers, 9-20 Trail Blazers and 15-15 Hawks.