LeBron James: It's very challenging for the Lakers without Anthony Davis

The Los Angeles Lakers' 2022 season had been the subject of a quite remarkable resurgence, led by Anthony Davis, however with the former New Orleans Pelicans star now injured, LeBron James lamented his absence.

The Lakers suffered a Christmas Day collapse against the Dallas Mavericks, giving up a high amount of third quarter points as they eventually succumbed to Luka Doncic and co. 124-115.

It was the Los Angeles franchise's fourth successive defeat since Davis went down with an injury and James is concerned for the team's prospects without AD.

"Reality is, without AD, we lose a lot of length, which we don't have already," James told reporters in his post-game interview.

"So, we have to make up in ways that, without AD, is very difficult.

"It's very challenging, at one point we had a lineup where Austin Reaves was our tallest guy on the court, so, you don't have to be a rocket scientist to figure it out."

James shone in Davis' absence

It may not come as much of a consolation given the fact the Lakers are on a losing streak, but James did his best to try and tip his team beyond the Mavericks on Sunday.

He recorded 38 points and went 13 for 23 in his shooting, however it was not enough to overcome the Dallas franchise.

Despite suggestions the veteran is nearing retirement, James maintained that despite the run of defeats, he is still enjoying being in the NBA.

"At the end of the day, I love to play the game of basketball," he concluded.

"I'm still enjoying going out there and playing in front of fans, either at home or on the road.

"I'm just trying to control what I can control; I show up, try to lead these guys and try to lead to victories."

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