ORLANDO – When New Orleans three-time All-Star forward Anthony Davis exited an Oct. 12 game in China with a right ankle sprain, there was concern that his availability for the Oct. 26 regular season opener vs. Denver might be in jeopardy. Fortunately for Davis and the Pelicans, it appears the 23-year-old is making an excellent recovery and may be ahead of schedule, based on an initial timetable to return of 10-14 days.
Davis has been upgraded to probable for Thursday’s preseason finale against the Orlando Magic, according to Pelicans Coach Alvin Gentry. Davis practiced Wednesday with his teammates on the campus of the University of Central Florida.
“He went through practice today,” Gentry said of Davis. “We’re still not real sure (if he will play, but) he’ll be probable for tomorrow. There is a chance that he’ll play, but we’ve really got to evaluate him in the morning and see where it is. We don’t want to do anything stupid, as far as pushing him in if he’s not ready to go. We’ll go through shootaround tomorrow and probably make a decision.”
Gentry said he’s been pleased by Davis’ progress since sustaining the injury Oct. 12 in the first quarter against Houston.
“Originally we thought it might be 10 to 14 days,” Gentry said. “I think the doctors and trainers have done a great job, to get him where he is right now. We were thinking another week or so. He’s way ahead of schedule. It still doesn’t mean he’s going to play tomorrow, but he’s probable. I like the progress that he’s made.”
The update on Davis wasn’t the only positive news Wednesday on the health front. After having to miss Tuesday’s loss at Atlanta due to a stomach illness – Darren Erman took over for a night as head coach – Gentry was much improved during practice.
“I am feeling better,” the coach said. “I had a little stomach virus or something last night. I had to see a doctor, but I’m fine now.”