The return of Anthony Davis could be the turnaround the Los Angeles Lakers have been yearning for this season. After a 17-game absence due to a left knee injury, the All-Star big man is eager to regain his form and help flip the switch and help get rid of the malaise of the Lakers.

He only played for 25 minutes in his triumphant return, as the Lakers beat the depleted Brooklyn Nets, 106-96. Davis finished with eight points, two rebounds, two assists, and four blocks.

After the game, AD was asked by reporters how heavy he'll play in their upcoming games. While he sounded optimistic, he also recognized that it's probably better to err on the side of caution in the next few days (via ClutchPoints' Michael Corvo).

“If I've got to babysit it, I shouldn't be on the floor.”

Davis sitting out more games is not the most optimal for the languid Lakers right now, but at this point, he's not yet 100%. He's probably thinking in terms of long-term consequences as well, hoping perhaps that the team will do enough to make it to the NBA Playoffs, where he can be fully healthy.

But for sure, his return is a welcome sight for the Lakers, especially for coach Frank Vogel, who's walking on a tightrope these days.

The Lakers are back at .500 after beating the Nets with a 24-24 slate. Up next for them is a road game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday.