Anthony Davis returns to game against Suns after throat contusion
Pelicans All-Star forward Anthony Davis was forced from action with a throat contusion during the second quarter of New Orleans' 90-75 home victory over Phoenix on Friday. The team initially announced that he was questionable to return for the second half and he eventually returned in the fourth quarter.
Just moments into the second quarter with the Pelicans leading 27-21, Davis took an elbow to the throat area from Suns center Earl Barron while attempting to complete an alley-oop from Jrue Holiday.
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Davis immediately clutched at his throat and headed to the sidelines.
[daily_cut.NBA]This has been another season of rough luck with injuries for the 22-year-old Davis, who suffered a shoulder injury while taking a hard fall on a dunk attempt in February. New Orleans' franchise player is averaging 24.3 points, 10.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 3 blocks and 1.5 steals per game this season.
The Pelicans are in a heated race with the Thunder for the eighth and final Western Conference playoff spot. Entering Friday's games, New Orleans and Oklahoma City held 42-36 records. The Pelicans, who are seeking their first playoff appearance since 2011, hold the tie-breaker between the teams. Their next game is on Sunday against the Rockets in Houston.
Davis finished with a team-high 19 points, nine rebounds and four assists. Eric Gordon added 15 points and three assists.
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Eric Bledsoe led the Suns with 19 points and seven assists. P.J. Tucker and Markieff Morris added 12 points apiece.
New Orleans improved to 43-36. Phoenix fell to 39-41.
