Anthony Davis could be back in the Lakers’ lineup this week

Amid big roster changes for the Los Angeles Lakers this week, there’s some uplifting news: Anthony Davis is expected ti finally return to the court. 

After experiencing another loss on March 29, the Lakers are in need of their biggest stars. On that front, NBA insider Chris Haynes was able to offer some updates on when several injured Lakers stars would be able to return. Fortunately, Anthony Davis is expected to return on April 1 as the Lakers host the New Orleans Pelicans in Los Angeles.

“If there are no setbacks, sources say the target return dates are either Friday at home against New Orleans or Sunday when Denver comes to visit,” Haynes said.

Anthony Davis targeting a weekend return as Lakers slip in rankings

Additionally, LeBron James remains out as he recovers from swelling in his ankle, and Kendrick Nunn is expected to miss the entire year with a bone bruise.

While the Lakers have made mistakes with their roster throughout the season, primarily by being locked in with Russell Westbrook and unable to make a trade by February, the Lakers have been significantly impacted by injury throughout the season. In the 2021-22 season, Kendrick Nunn has missed 75 games, Trevor Ariza has missed 52, Anthony Davis has missed 37, Talen Horton-Tucker has missed 21, LeBron James has missed 19, and Austin Reaves has missed 19.

When Davis returns, then only Nunn, James and Wenyen Gabriel will be out, although James and Gabriel are listed as “Day-To-Day” and could return any day now.

But having Anthony Davis and LeBron James retake the court together may not be enough at this point. The Lakers are ranked No. 11 in the Western Conference, tied with the San Antonio Spurs with a 31-44 record. If Davis’ return means they can overtake the 32-43 Pelicans, perhaps the Lakers could earn a better play-in spot—but at this point in the year, the gaps only grow larger as teams settle into their playoff spots.