Anthony Davis has called out former Laker Larry Nance Jr. for dangerous play, which resulted in the big man exiting the game early from back spasms.
In the fourth quarter against the Pelicans on Sunday night, Nance made contact with Davis while he was attempting a putback layup.
AD remained on the court after the play, but was clutching at his lower back.
He then walked to the sideline and lied on the floor to try and stretch it out.
Anthony Davis went back to the locker room after an apparent injury. pic.twitter.com/qKT6K4wl1Y
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) April 14, 2024
After the game, Lakers coach Darvin Ham told reporters that Davis suffered a “spasm”, though described it as “nothing major.
Davis shared similar thoughts to his coach, while accusing Nance of dangerous play.
“He gave me a little shove in the back,” Davis told reporters. “My back just locked up on me. Nothing concerning.
“I was in the air. So, obviously it’s a dangerous play. I know he’s not a dirty player. But I’m in the air and then get shoved in the back. Hyperextension. It just locks up. Nothing that concerns me, though. …
“No doubt that I’m gonna play. Just see how it feels the rest of the day; I’ll have to get massages, get some treatment … keep loose. See how I feel over the next 24, 36 hours and get ready for Tuesday.”
The Lakers will remain in New Orleans in preparation for their Play-In matchup on Tuesday.
Although the franchise enjoyed a 124-108 victory on Sunday, Anthony Davis and LeBron James know that the postseason is a whole different kettle of fish.
Despite the injury, Davis finished the night with 30 points, 11 rebounds and three assists on 76.5 percent shooting from beyond the arc.