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Anthony Davis returns to Lakers-Grizzlies game after injury scare

Apr 16, 2023; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3) spins toward the basket as Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr. (13) defends during the first half during game one of the 2023 NBA playoffs at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
Anthony Davis returned for the third quarter following a first-half injury scare. (Petre Thomas/Reuters)

Anthony Davis gave Lakers fans an injury scare during Sunday's Game 1 against the Memphis Grizzlies.

But he returned strong after halftime, and Los Angeles secured a 128-112 win to take a 1-0 series lead.

The Lakers big man took contact while securing a rebound in traffic in the second quarter and immediately grabbed his right shoulder, declaring, "I can't move my arm." He left for the locker room with 1:15 remaining in the half and didn't return before halftime.

ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported during the break that Davis was believed to have sustained a stinger and was undergoing further testing. Davis returned for the start of the third quarter.

He was a force on both sides of the court in the first half, tallying 10 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks as he repeatedly challenged Grizzlies shots in the post.

Davis the finished the game with 22 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals and 5 blocks. He attacked the basket and continued to challenge Grizzlies scoring efforts after returning, putting to rest concern about his shoulder.

When healthy, Davis is one of basketball's best post players and critical to the Lakers' hopes of a first-round upset of the No. 2-seed Grizzles. Injuries have plagued him throughout his career, and Sunday's brief exit raised familiar anxieties for Lakers fans. But this time at least, the game's result and Davis' post-injury performance should ease those worries.