Is an Anthony Davis Trade In the Works?

Is an Anthony Davis trade in the works by the Dallas Mavericks? Such a trade appears to be impossible on paper, but shouldn’t be ruled out given Davis’s laundry list of injuries. Read on for further insight so you can make an informed decision.

Is An Anthony Davis Trade In the Works?

Even in his 30s, Davis continues to bring dominant defensive and scoring ability, respectively, when healthy. He agreed to a three-year, $186 million contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers. He remains under contract with the Dallas Mavericks, meaning he could enter free agency a year earlier if he wanted because of his player option for 2027-28.

He is the 16th highest-paid player in the NBA, with a $43,219,440 salary in 2024-25. The star he was traded for, Luka Doncic, ranked 17th, with a $43,031,940 salary in the same year.

Despite the public’s backlash, Dallas appeared to do just fine with him. However, his injuries have been a massive concern, as Dallas’ roster is already injury-plagued. Yet, Dallas found huge luck in the NBA Draft Lottery with the No. 1 pick of Duke star Cooper Flagg.

So, what should Dallas do? ESPN’s Shams Charania recently spoke about Dallas’ potential willingness to trade him this year after GM Nico Harrison’s departure.

Charania, 31, said on NBA Countdown, “This franchise is moving away from Nico Harrison’s three-to-four-year championship window and toward trying to find sustained success and sustained growth around Cooper Flagg and youth. And to that end, sources have told ESPN that the Mavericks will be listening to trade calls for Anthony Davis and seeing and exploring his value.”

Where Would Davis Go?

If he gets traded, Davis could receive offers from the Chicago Bulls, Toronto Raptors, New York Knicks, Golden State Warriors, and Sacramento Kings, but only if he gets healthy and proves he can still play at an NBA All-Star level.

In addition, Dallas’ interim GMs, Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi, may not be allowed to trade him and change the future direction of the franchise. Everything is just speculation until Dallas sees what its roster looks like with a healthy him and Kyrie Irving and alongside Cooper Flagg — and until the trade happens.

Final Thoughts

Don’t get me wrong, Davis is a fun player to watch due to his playful side and fun, engaging personality. However, his NBA career may reach a breaking point soon. Davis was once seen as a generational talent, but his injuries and setbacks shine a light on an uncertain future in the NBA.