Anthony Davis Sets Stage for Emotional Return as Mavericks Prepare to Face the Lakers

The Dallas Mavericks have stumbled out of the gates this season, sitting at a disappointing 5–14 in the Western Conference. But tomorrow night’s matchup vs. the Los Angeles Lakers suddenly carries a dramatic twist: Anthony Davis wants that game — and he’s not hiding it.

Still recovering from injury, Davis has been one of the biggest absences holding Dallas back. While losing Dereck Lively II hurt, it’s the missing two-way presence of Davis that has pushed the Mavericks into one of the league’s toughest stretches.

And now, with trade speculation swirling and the front office already firing GM Nico Harrison, Davis sees the upcoming showdown as the perfect opportunity to make a statement.

🔥 AD’s Message: “You Already Know Who I Want to Face”

Speaking after a Mavericks practice, Davis didn’t hesitate when asked whether he preferred to return against the LA Lakers or the LA Clippers.

A smirk.

A pause.

And then the answer everyone expected.

Reporters described Davis as “energized” and “locked in,” but also measured — he’s not rushing into a premature return. Still, the intention is clear: if he can physically play, he wants the Lakers.

This is more than a comeback game. It’s personal.

💥 A Return With Layers: Former Team, Trade Rumors, and Pressure in Dallas

Since arriving in Dallas, Davis has battled injuries, system adjustments, and a Mavericks roster missing key pieces. With the team spiraling, his absence has exposed every weakness:

• Interior defense evaporated
• Rebounding slipped dramatically
• Luka Dončić has shouldered nearly all the playmaking load

And mixed into the struggles?

A growing narrative that the Mavericks may eventually consider moving Davis if the season continues to sink.

That’s why a strong return — and especially one against the Lakers — would carry meaning beyond box scores. It’s a chance for AD to:

• Remind the league of his value
• Silence trade chatter
• Show he’s still a franchise cornerstone

🎭 Lakers Connection Adds Fuel

Facing the Los Angeles Lakers, the franchise he once led to a championship, adds an unavoidable emotional element. Davis still shares deep ties with LeBron James, and his preseason embrace with Luka Dončić symbolized his connection to both sides of tomorrow’s narrative.

A comeback vs. his former team isn’t just symbolic — it’s headline material.

⏳ Will He Actually Play?

Although Davis clearly wants the Lakers matchup, team staff emphasized caution. He continues ramping up conditioning and hasn’t been cleared for full contact.

Still, insiders believe Friday remains a real possibility.

If he plays, the NBA Cup game instantly becomes must-watch television.

If he doesn’t, the anticipation only grows.

Either way, Anthony Davis has made one thing unmistakably clear:

He’s coming — and he wants the Lakers to see it.