Davis scores 37, powers Lakers past Sixers

Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts to a play against the Philadelphia 76ers during the first half at Staples Center on March 03, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images/AFP

LeBron James had 22 points, 14 assists and seven rebounds for the Lakers, who moved to 47-13 with their ninth win in 10 games. Davis hit four 3-pointers while going 13 of 19 from the field and grabbing 13 rebounds.

The Lakers needed every bit of their All-Stars’ brilliance to hold off a solid effort by the undermanned Sixers, who played without injured starters Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons and Josh Richardson.

Glenn Robinson III matched his career high with 25 points and Tobias Harris had 18 for the Sixers, who have lost nine consecutive road games since Jan. 20.

Philadelphia lost twice at Staples Center to start its four-game California road trip despite this persistent effort against the powerhouse Lakers.

Philly’s role players and backups got off to an impressive start, taking an early 13-point lead. That’s when Davis took control as part of a 42-10 run by the Lakers in 10 minutes spanning halftime.

With Davis hitting three 3-pointers, making all seven of his second-quarter shots, and even throwing a crossover dribble at Al Horford along the way, the Lakers made 17 of their 19 shots during the impressive streak.

Dwight Howard had 11 points without missing a shot at the line or in the field for the Lakers.

The teams split their season series. The 76ers beat the Lakers 108-91 on Jan. 25 while James passed Kobe Bryant for third place on the NBA’s career scoring list. Bryant died in a helicopter crash the next morning, several hours after congratulating James on the accomplishment.

TIP-INS

76ers: Richardson is in the NBA’s concussion protocol after colliding with teammate Alec Burks in Sunday’s loss to the Clippers. … Embiid missed his third straight game with a sprained left shoulder. … Simmons missed his fifth straight game with a lower back injury.

Lakers: Alex Caruso missed his second straight game with a sore right hamstring. The injury to LA’s versatile backup guard isn’t thought to be serious. … Los Angeles plays its next six games at Staples Center, with a “road” game against the Clippers on Sunday. … Davis played despite a sore right knee.

UP NEXT

76ers: Visit the Sacramento Kings on Thursday night.

Lakers: Host the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday night in a showdown of conference leaders.