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Davis was cleared to play after pregame warmup, but will be on a minutes restriction
Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis returned to the lineup Wednesday night against the San Antonio Spurs, coming off the bench for the first time in nearly a decade. Davis had been out of action for the past 5.5 weeks due to a fractured bone spur and stress reaction in his right foot.
Cleared to Play
Davis was cleared to play after his pregame warmup, which took place about two hours prior to tipoff. Lakers coach Darvin Ham was happy for his return, stating “I know how frustrating this process has been for him, especially at the level at which he was playing. I’m just happy for him, and definitely happy for us.”
Minutes Restriction
Davis will be on a minutes restriction, with sources saying he will play in the 20-24 minute range. Ham stated that he would manage Davis’ minutes so he could potentially close out the game if necessary. The last time Davis came off the bench in a game was Dec. 18, 2013, in Los Angeles against the Clippers in his second season with the New Orleans Pelicans.
Rui Hachimura’s Debut
Rui Hachimura, who was acquired in a trade with the Washington Wizards earlier this week, also made his Lakers debut against the Spurs and came off the bench, checking in at the same time as Davis. Both players were welcomed with a loud ovation from the Lakers crowd.
In Conclusion
Anthony Davis’ return to the Lakers lineup is a welcome sight for the team and their fans. Although he will be on a minutes restriction, his presence on the court will be a huge boost for the team as they look to make a strong push in the playoffs. It will also be interesting to see how Hachimura fits in with the team and how his role develops in the coming games.