Anthony Davis finally returned to the court, but his night ended with a familiar frustration. The 10-time All-Star couldn’t stop the Dallas Mavericks from falling 129-119 to the Los Angeles Lakers in their recent NBA Cup matchup.
While the scoreboard was tough to look at, cameras caught a genuine moment after the final buzzer that had social media talking.
What Happened Between Anthony Davis and Rui Hachimura?
The NBA social media account Fullcourtpass highlighted a post-game interaction Davis had with his former Lakers running mate, Rui Hachimura. Full Court Pass said, “Rui Hachimura cheers up Anthony Davis after the Lakers beat the Mavericks.”
The video paints a clear picture. A frustrated Davis is staring off into the distance before Hachimura approaches with his arms extended for a hug, which causes Davis to smile slightly. It was a brief break in the tension for a player who has faced a difficult stretch.
Rui Hachimura cheers up Anthony Davis after the Lakers beat the Mavericks
(h/t @MrBuckBuckNBA)pic.twitter.com/5UA5172H28
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) November 29, 2025
These two built a real connection during their time in purple and gold. They played together for parts of two seasons, including their run to the NBA Cup in the 2023-24 campaign. Their chemistry wasn’t just a matter of vibes, either, as the numbers backed up their on-court fit.
When they shared the court with guard Austin Reaves during the 2023-24 season, that lineup boasted a massive +29 net rating. Even when paired with league icon LeBron James, they sat at a comfortable +16. Hachimura was the perfect partner for Davis, spacing the floor by shooting 42.2% from deep that season.
Why Is Davis Facing Uncertainty in Dallas?
Davis likely pictured winning another ring in Los Angeles, but the league moves fast. The blockbuster trade that sent him to Dallas for Luka Doncic last February changed everything. Now, he finds himself on a team fighting to stay out of the Western Conference basement.
Injuries haven’t helped his cause with the Mavericks fan base, either. Between an adductor strain last season and a left calf strain this year, he has missed plenty of action. He actually sat out the previous 14 games before suiting up against his old squad, where he posted 12 points, five rebounds, and five assists while trying to find his rhythm.
With the Mavericks considering a rebuild and general manager Nico Harrison, the man who acquired him, gone, trade rumors are swirling again. Perhaps Hachimura could see the tension on Davis’s face and wanted to support him.
