Tristan Vukcevic explains why he called Frank Kaminsky before game vs. Lakers / News - Basketnews.com

Tristan Vukcevic sought advice from former teammate Frank Kaminsky on how to defend against Anthony Davis, but the Los Angeles superstar still dominated with 35 points and 18 rebounds.

Credit: Partizan Mozzart Bet/Dragana Stjepanovic, AP - Scanpix Credit Partizan Mozzart Bet/Dragana Stjepanovic, AP - Scanpix

Washington Wizards rookie Tristan Vukcevic sought advice from former Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade teammate Frank Kaminsky before facing off against Los Angeles Lakers superstar Anthony Davis.

Player of the Game EFF 49 Anthony Davis Points 35 Accuracy 10-17 Rebounds 18 Assists 1

Despite his preparation and team effort, Davis was an unmatched force under the baskets, as he scored 19 of his 35 points in the first quarter and had 18 rebounds, helping the Lakers beat the Wizards 125-120 on Wednesday night for their eighth victory in nine games.

"Today, I just watched a lot of film. I called my friend [Frank] Kaminsky," Vukcevic shared his pre-game preparations. "He was my teammate, and I asked him if he got some tips on how to guard AD [Anthony Davis]. He told me what to do, like where to push him, [what are] his strengths.

"We play like in the same position [with Kaminsky]. Pretty much kind of the same player, pick-and-pop five. And he's been in the league for 7-8 years, so it's a guy who is helping me."

The Lakers faced a scare when Davis took an elbow to the nose from Vukcevic, causing him to stay down briefly. But Davis was able to play on, which was bad news for Washington.

On the other end, Vukcevic made his presence felt as well, contributing a career-high 15 points and 3 rebounds to the Wizards' effort. Since joining the NBA in mid-March, the 21-year-old has been averaging 5.4 points and 2.7 rebounds over seven games.

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