When Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis injured his right thumb during a Saturday preseason game in China, the initial diagnosis appeared to indicate a mild sprain with no ligament damage.
However, one new report takes a dimmer view about when Davis will be able to return, stating that the news might be worse than expected.
Source tells me Lakers are worried Davis thumb injury is similar to Drew Brees. Surgery would cost him about a month. Chris Paul has similar injury.
— Will Carroll (@injuryexpert) October 12, 2019
The Lakers are not likely to clarify the situation until the veteran undergoes an MRI on Sunday.
The thumb injury to New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees took place on Sept. 15. He soon underwent surgery and was given a six-week recovery period, with his return expected early next month, if not sooner.
In the case of Chris Paul, he underwent surgery on his left thumb in January 2017 and missed the next five weeks before returning. That period also included the All-Star break.
Losing Davis for any period of time is obviously not something the Lakers want, as not having him available for an extended period would make things even more difficult for the team.
The Lakers are already dealing with the likely season-ending ACL injury to DeMarcus Cousins and the current stress fracture that Kyle Kuzma is rehabilitating. Last season, key injuries also helped keep the team out of the postseason, with LeBron James’ health issues serving as the biggest blow.
Until any official confirmation on the status of Davis comes, attempting to gauge the validity of someone’s speculation is a pointless effort. For the time being, the Lakers and their fan base will have to nervously sit by and wait.
