The Los Angeles Lakers have already ruled LeBron James out for Friday night's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves due to left foot soreness. Los Angeles has endured an inconsistent 2024-25 season overall, as they are 13-11 heading into Friday's contest. The Lakers will need Anthony Davis on the floor against the Timberwolves amid James' absence, but will the star big man be available to play?
Davis is listed as probable on the NBA injury report as of this story's writing. It is also worth noting that Austin Reaves (left pelvic contusion) is questionable. Jaxson Hayes (right ankle sprain/contusion), Jarred Vanderbilt (right foot surgery recovery), Jalen Hood-Schifino (left hamstring strain), Christian Wood (left knee surgery recovery) and Bronny James (G League) are all listed as out in addition to LeBron.
Davis is dealing with left plantar fasciitis. It should be noted that AD was able to play in the Lakers' recent 107-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. It seems likely that Davis will play against the Timberwolves barring unforeseen circumstances. Still, the Lakers will monitor the situation closely ahead of tip-off.
Anthony Davis hoping to overcome injury concern, lead Lakers vs. Timberwolves
Davis, a nine-time All-Star, is averaging 27.5 points per game on 52.9 percent field goal and 32 percent three-point shooting so far in 2024-25. He is also averaging 11.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.3 steals and 2.0 blocks per outing.
The 31-year-old is more than capable of making a big impact on both ends of the floor. Davis can defend the best big men in the NBA while leading LA's offense. With LeBron James set to miss the Lakers-Timberwolves clash, LA will need Davis to play at an All-Star level.
Of course, it will not all completely fall on him. The Lakers will need to utilize a team effort. If Davis receives enough help while playing up to his standards, Los Angeles could end up earning the victory on the road. Minnesota has not played up to their expectations so far, as they are just 12-11 in the 2024-25 campaign. The Timberwolves last played on Sunday, when they were defeated 114-106 by the Golden State Warriors.
Friday's night's tip-off is scheduled for 8 PM EST as the Lakers look to take care of business on the road in Minnesota. Fans will want to monitor the NBA injury report on Friday for updates on Anthony Davis' status for the game.