Mavericks F Anthony Davis (groin) won't return vs. Warriors

Oft-injured Dallas Mavericks big man Anthony Davis left Thursday's game against the Golden State Warriors with what the team called right groin spasms.

He will not return to the Christmas Day showdown, with ESPN reporting that the team is operating with an "abundance of caution."

Davis removed himself from the nationally televised contest shortly after deflecting a Stephen Curry pass with just less than nine minutes remaining in the second period.

The Mavericks trailed 40-36 at the time. Davis, who was credited with a steal on his final defensive play, finished with three points, three rebounds, two blocks and the one steal.

Davis switched out on Curry to prevent a 3-point shot, then deflected a pass when Curry elected not to shoot.

The 10-time All-Star then jogged down the court on Dallas' possession, but when the Mavericks lost the ball, Davis kept right on running from the left corner of the court to the end of the Dallas bench and straight into the locker room. He was seen holding his groin and appeared to be limping slightly.

Davis' start Thursday was just his 16th of the season in Dallas' first 32 games. He has missed time with an assortment of injuries, including Achilles, leg and calf issues.

--Field Level Media