Anthony Davis’ stellar performances have been pivotal, prompting surprising words from head coach JJ Redick. The Los Angeles Lakers have proven themselves as legitimate contenders for an NBA playoff spot,

Redick has challenged the Lakers ever since he took the job as head coach. There's been a level of accountability, transparency, and consistency throughout this season. So far, that method has paid off. They sit at the No. 6 seed right now with a 21-17 record. Los Angeles has had some bumps in the road, as all teams do.

Anthony Davis left the Lakers' game against Philadelphia on Tuesday in the first half with an abdominal muscle strain. Davis walked to the locker room with his right hand over his stomach when he left with 2:10 to go in the first quarter.