Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis is expected to be sidelined for at least one week following an abdominal muscle strain he sustained during the team's 118-104 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday. The Lakers announced on Wednesday that an MRI confirmed the injury, and Davis will be re-evaluated in approximately one week.

Davis exited the game after playing just 10 minutes, marking a concerning development for the Lakers, especially as he had been performing at a high level prior to the injury. Currently, he is averaging 25.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.1 blocks, and 1.3 steals per game while shooting an impressive 52.8 percent from the field. This stellar performance positions Davis for a potential 10th career All-Star selection.

Fortunately for the Lakers, Davis has demonstrated increased durability in recent seasons, participating in 76 games last season, which highlights a notable improvement over his previous campaigns. When fully healthy, Davis, alongside LeBron James, forms one of the most formidable duos in the league, significantly enhancing the Lakers’ chances to contend against any opponent. However, in his absence, the team will have to rely on players such as Rui Hachimura, Jaxson Hayes, and Christian Koloko in the frontcourt. Given the existing demand for additional frontcourt depth, Davis's injury may compel the organization to consider making a trade before the NBA’s trade deadline on February 6. The Lakers, currently standing at 26-19, are scheduled to return to action on Thursday against the 6-39 Washington Wizards.