Why is Anthony Davis not playing tonight against Portland Trail Blazers? Latest injury update for Lakers star (Jan. 2)

Anthony Davis won't suit up for the LA Lakers in Thursday's clash against the Atlanta Hawks. Davis was questionable leading up to the contest but ruled out three hours before tip-off. The Lakers had downgraded the star center's status to doubtful shortly before ruling him out.

According to the Lakers' official injury update, Davis has a sprained left ankle. He injured himself in a Christmas Day game against the Golden State Warriors. While it didn't rule Davis out for the following two games, the Lakers seem to have taken a measured approach with his availability ahead of a back-to-back set. The Lakers will be in action on Friday against the Atlanta Hawks.

New addition Dorian Finney-Smith could see his minutes bumped in Davis' absence. Meanwhile, the returning Jaxson Hayes could start for "AD". LeBron James and Austin Reaves must carry the offensive load for LA.

The Trail Blazers are the tougher opponents at this point than the Hawks, so it makes sense why the Lakers would want to rest Anthony Davis for this game. Meanwhile, Gabe Vincent will join Davis on the sidelines. The veteran guard has an oblique strain.

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Anthony Davis needs a rest more than any other player on the Lakers

The Lakers must be cognizant of Anthony Davis' minutes and workload. The 31-year-old has been their most available player since February 2023. "AD" is coming off an Olympic campaign with the U.S.A. after logging 82 games last season, including the In-Season tournament final and playoffs.

He's played 31 of the Lakers' 32 games this season. Davis has carried an injury or two during this stretch, especially on the same left leg. Before the Christmas Day ankle injury, he suffered a left foot sprain earlier this season, an ailment he had been managing for the better part of the 2023-24 season. Davis played through the injury during Team USA's gold medal run.

With Austin Reaves stepping up of late, with three consecutive 25+ point games against quality opponents, JJ Redick seemingly has immense faith in the team to get the job done against a bottom-feeding team without Anthony Davis.

LeBron James is active, too, giving Redick and the Lakers the luxury of resting "AD".