A huge hand for a familiar big man

Davis embraced by fans and ex-Lakers teammates in first game in L.A. since mega-trade

- THUC NHI NGUYEN

ANTHONY DAVIS (3) fouls Luka Doncic as the paths of the two primary players of a blockbuster trade crossed at Crypto.​com Arena.

GINA FERAZZI Los Angeles Times

The Lakers’ new big man went to the free-throw line. The team’s former big man was on the mind of fans.

“I miss you, AD!” a Lakers fan shouted into the silence as Deandre Ayton prepared to shoot a free throw in the first quarter Friday.

Former Lakers star Anthony Davis played his first game in L.A. since being traded to the Mavericks last season, finishing with 12 points, five assists, five rebounds and three blocked shots in the Lakers’ 129-119 win at Crypto.com Arena.

He had an emphatic one-handed block on a shot by former teammate LeBron James in the fourth quarter, but didn’t hold any satisfaction in the play. The Mavericks lost for the fifth time in six games.

“I get pleasure in winning,” a subdued Davis said.

The Lakers (14-4) won their sixth straight game, securing home-court advantage for the NBA Cup tournament quarterfinals. The Lakers will host the San Antonio Spurs, who won West Group C, on Dec. 10 at 7p.m.

The Mavericks (5-15) lost their third straight as the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to L.A. has only become more lopsided in the 10 months since it shocked the NBA.

Doncic had 35 points and 11 assists for the Lakers. Former Lakers guard Max Christie, who was also involved in the trade, had 13 points and has become a starter for the Mavericks.