In Hot Pursuit for the Playoffs, Anthony Davis and LeBron James May Have a Reason to Worry as Injury Plague Forces Star Teammate to Sit Out

The Los Angeles Lakers seem to have turned the table. What was once a nightmare season has now become an inspiring push for the playoffs. The Purple and Gold have regained their glory since acquiring fresh faces at the trade deadline. Moreover, the dynamic between Anthony Davis and LeBron James has returned, making them even bigger threats. The 2020 champions enjoyed a third straight win convincingly dealing with the Houston Rockets. However, while there was a lot to cheer for, one major worry could continue to make Laker Nation sweat.

For the second time this season, D’Angelo Russell had to call it an early night. This time he didn’t take any part in the second half of the contest against the Rockets due to left foot soreness. The injury might not be major, but it could plant the seeds of the horrors to come.

The return of an old problem could doom LeBron James and the Lakers’ playoff hopes

Injuries have been an old foe of the Los Angeles Lakers. For the past two seasons, the likes of Anthony Davis and LeBron James have both been victims of major injuries. This season, the Akron Hammer has missed considerable time due to a foot injury. Moreover, The Brow’s stint with the Lakers is characterized by frequent health concerns. However, it might be for the first time in a very long span that all circumstances are favoring the Purple and Gold.

Atleast that was the case until D’Angelo Russell exited the game against Houston. The technical guard has been a major contributor since arriving back in LA. He is averaging 18.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game donning the Laker jersey. But now he might well be the next prey of injuries and bad luck. Notably, this is the second time the 2019 All-Star sparked an injury scare. It started when he suffered a right ankle sprain last month that kept him out for six straight games.

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After the game, head coach Darvin Ham provided an encouraging update saying the 27-year-old didn’t participate as a precaution and not due to the severity of the injury itself. However, it does beg the question, how far can injuries affect the Lakers?

How injuries render the Lakers hopeless

The Lakers currently have their eyes all set on the 6th seed. Evidently, there is also a ferocious hunger in each player’s heart. Leading the way is the resurgence of Anthony Davis, who has now scored 35 or more in three straight games.

But the most vital of all traits might be consistency, and the Lakers majorly struggle in that category. As a new group, every game together helps build chemistry and create a dependable system. Luck hasn’t been on the side of the Lakers when it comes to injuries as they have not allowed the Lakers to build chemistry till now. The targets have often been their headline stars who are instrumental in making a successful run for the postseason.

With the Playoffs approaching, they will be hoping to have everyone back in time. For now, James, Anthony Davis, and Russell are all healthy. However, if one pin does fall, it could cause a domino effect, as we have seen before.

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Do you think there is a storm brewing over the Lakers? Let us know your views in the comments below.