Los Angeles Lakers fans were frustrated on Wednesday when their team had an opportunity to eliminate the defending NBA champion Golden State Warriors, but instead lost 121-106.
The Lakers got beat in several effort categories, particularly rebounding, and their big free throw advantage vanished. But the worst part of the loss for fans was the exit of Anthony Davis, who got whacked in the head in the fourth quarter.
Based on the symptoms he was reportedly experiencing, many thought he had sustained a concussion. But he has apparently avoided one, as he is now listed as probable for Game 6 on Friday at Crypto.com Arena.
Darvin Ham on Anthony Davis:
“He’s doing great. He’s not in the protocol. He’ll be listed as probable tomorrow.”
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) May 11, 2023
In fact, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, it’s all but certain Davis will suit up and play in Game 6.
As I just reported on NBA Today, a source close to Anthony Davis told ESPN on Thursday morning he "doesn't envision any scenario" where AD would miss Friday's Game 6 against the Warriors. "It's the playoffs," the source added.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) May 11, 2023
It is likely the winner of that contest will end up taking the series, as a Lakers loss would result in a Game 7 on Sunday afternoon in San Francisco. Given the iron-clad record home teams have in Game 7s and the momentum Golden State would have, it’s hard to imagine the Lakers winning such a contest, although it is certainly possible.