Davis Suffers Left Adductor Strain in First Game for Dallas
Anthony Davis is set to be sidelined for multiple weeks after straining his left adductor during his debut game with the Dallas Mavericks. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania and Tim MacMahon, the injury could keep him out for up to a month, forcing him to miss as many as 12 crucial games in the playoff race.
The 2020 NBA champion delivered a stellar performance in the Mavericks’ 116-105 victory over the Houston Rockets, recording 26 points, 16 rebounds, seven assists, and three blocks in 31 minutes. However, with 1:37 remaining in the third quarter, Davis collapsed to the floor holding his groin while defending a drive from Rockets center Alperen Şengün.
Davis Initially Downplayed the Injury
Speaking after the game, Davis reassured fans that the injury was not severe.
“Just the leg got tight, like a little spasm,” Davis said. “Just came back, tried to get it loose and everything. Obviously, dealing with the ab strain still, so just tried to get it loose. It wouldn’t really loosen up and let go, but it’s nothing serious. I’m fine.”
However, subsequent evaluations indicate a more extended recovery period, sidelining him for a significant stretch of the season.
Mavericks Face Key Stretch Without Davis
Dallas, currently eighth in the Western Conference, holds a narrow 1.5-game lead over the Sacramento Kings, Phoenix Suns, and Golden State Warriors. Davis’ absence will be felt in the upcoming matchups, including games against the Kings and Warriors on Monday and Wednesday.
Davis joined the Mavericks from the Los Angeles Lakers on February 2 in a shocking trade that sent five-time All-Star Luka Dončić to the Lakers as part of a three-team deal involving the Utah Jazz. The move sparked backlash from Mavericks fans, who protested outside the American Airlines Center before Saturday’s game, calling for GM Nico Harrison’s resignation.
Meanwhile, Dončić is set to make his Lakers debut on Monday against the Jazz, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career.
