Report: Anthony Davis unlikely to play in Game 5 with groin strain
After grasping the series lead not long ago, the outlook of the series is now in question for the Los Angeles Lakers.
The major storyline stemming from Los Angeles’ loss in Game 4 was losing star big man Anthony Davis to a groin strain in the second quarter.
Davis tried attacking the basket from the left corner, but the Suns swarmed him on his way up. As Davis came down following contact with defenders, he fell to the floor holding his groin.
He got up and hobbled around, but he didn’t return to the game in the second half after going to the locker room.
Davis was already dealing with a knee sprain he suffered in Game 3 coming into the game, which only exacerbated his pain.
Now, as the Lakers head back to Phoenix for a pivotal Game 5, they’re unlikely to have Davis available, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic:
Lakers star Anthony Davis is unlikely to play in Game 5 vs. Suns on Tuesday due to strained groin, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. There’s optimism about Davis‘ status as series continues and as he is evaluated day-to-day.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 31, 2021
The two losses Los Angeles suffered this series resulted from poor outings from Davis. When he couldn’t get going, the Suns had the advantage, making Game 5 a precarious one for L.A. if they’re unable to adjust without their best big man.
But the reported optimism is a minor light at the end of the tunnel for Los Angeles’ hopes of winning the series, as Davis could play in Games 6 and 7 (if needed) if his legs hold up.
Game 5 is slated for Tuesday at 10 p.m. ET.
