Mavericks weigh Anthony Davis’ future as trade season approaches – Basketball Insider
With the unofficial start of the NBA trade season upon us, attention is turning to Anthony Davis and his future with the Dallas Mavericks. League insiders said Dallas could explore options including trading Davis or discussing a contract extension. Some front offices expected the Mavericks to get the call right away, as the window to shake up the roster is now open.
Davis, a ten-time All-Star, joined Dallas in a major trade last season after Luka Doncic was traded to the Lakers. The move changed Dallas, but also put the team in a complicated situation. The Mavericks still don’t have a permanent general manager, instead operating under interim co-general managers at the start of the trade period.
Eastern Conference teams showing interest
Many teams in the Eastern Conference are paying close attention to developments. If Dallas indicates a willingness to discuss a trade, teams such as the Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks and Toronto Raptors are expected to pursue him. Every organization views Davis as a player who can immediately change their competitive ceiling.
Detroit has one of the league’s top records and views Davis as a steady two-way presence. Atlanta and Toronto are both in contention for the playoffs, and they believe their frontcourt stars can speed up their progress. Any of these teams would need to include young players and matching salaries, and executives have realized that discussions will become complicated.
Trade scenarios offer different paths
Analysts have outlined several possible trade frameworks. One of the proposals would send Davis to the Pistons in exchange for a combination of veteran talent and young talent, giving Dallas more roster balance and future flexibility. Another scenario is that Davis comes to Atlanta as part of a deal involving multiple players and draft assets, allowing the Mavericks to regroup while remaining competitive.
Western Conference options also exist. The Golden State Warriors and San Antonio Spurs were considered potential fits because of their long-term roster needs and the possibility of salary matching. Any move involving Davis would require careful negotiation due to the size of his contract and injury history.
Deadline Risks and Rewards
There are obvious risks in trading Davis. He turns 33 in March and has been dealing with injury issues, which has given some clubs pause. His contract also includes significant future salary and player options that any team must evaluate carefully.
Still, his impact when healthy makes him one of the league’s most valuable trade assets. Whether Dallas chooses to keep Davis or pursue a marquee trade will help determine the direction of the team as the season progresses.
