LeBron James misses his 3rd game of December.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Lakers were without LeBron James on Saturday night because of an illness, but a standout performance from Anthony Davis and crucial efforts from their supporting cast made up for his absence in the 132-122 victory against the Sacramento Kings.
Davis was a game-time decision with a sprained ankle, but ultimately played, pouring in 36 points, 15 rebounds and eight assists in the win. Austin Reaves added 26 points and a career-high 16 assists. Rui Hachimura had 21 points, Max Christie chipped in with 16 and Dalton Knecht had 18 off the bench.
James missed his third game this month after sitting out against Portland and Minnesota because of a sore foot, but Lakers coach JJ Redick described him as being “a little under the weather” and does not expect a prolonged absence.
Davis went through pregame warmups after he was hurt in the first quarter of the Lakers’ 115-113 win at Golden State on Wednesday.
The Lakers were able to navigate the loss of Davis on Christmas to pick up their fourth win in five games, but they split the two outings without James, who is averaging 23.5 points, 7.9 rebounds and nine assists per game in his 22nd NBA season.
Gabe Vincent started in place of James.
