Anthony Davis' name was all anyone could talk about as the NBA Trade Deadline approached, before ultimately passing with Davis still a member of the New Orleans Pelicans.
MORE: NBA Trade Deadline tracker
Having not played since the Pelicans' 128-112 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on January 18, Davis is set to make his return to the court after Alvin Gentry confirmed his status pre-game.
An injured finger has seen the superstar big man miss the past nine games, a stretch that saw the Pelicans record a 3-6 stand.
Before the injury, Davis was averaging 29.3 points, 13.3 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks while shooting 50.9 percent from the field.
His return to the court will come with some restrictions with ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski stating he'll have a minutes reduction and may not play in any back-to-backs.
Here’s what to expect with Anthony Davis’ usage the rest of way with Pelicans: Fewer, if any, back-to-backs and a reduction in minutes from his 37 per game.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 8, 2019
The situation between Davis and the Pelicans in the lead up to the Trade Deadline was the talk of the NBA but after not being moved, he'll now return to action.
According to ESPN's Brian Windhorst the Pelicans were warned by the league they'd need to play the big man or risk a fine of $100,000 per game if a healthy Davis was held out.
Here's the very latest on the whole "should the Pelicans sit Anthony Davis the rest of the season to protect his trade value" issue, with @WindhorstESPN reporting that the NBA got involved & warned the Pels they'd risk a $100,000 fine PER GAME if they held a healthy AD out. pic.twitter.com/UxBA81TEm5
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) February 8, 2019
Pelicans general manager Dell Demps issued a statement following the deadline passing, announcing Davis wants to play and he gives them the best chance to win.
"A number of factors contributed to this decision," Demps said. "Ultimately, Anthony made it clear to us that he wants to play, and he gives our team the best opportunity to win games. Moreover, the Pelicans want to preserve the integrity of the game and align our organization with NBA policies. We believe Anthony playing upholds the values that are in the best interest of the NBA and its fans. We look forward to seeing Anthony in a Pelicans uniform again soon."
The Pelicans will play host to the Minnesota Timberwolves at 9:30 p.m. Eastern Time.