Mavericks unlikely to trade Anthony Davis ahead of deadline

Anthony Davis is starting to look more like a Maverick for the rest of the season.

With the trade deadline 10 days away, multiple league sources told Christian Clark of The Athletic that a Davis deal is now considered unlikely. Once viewed as one of the biggest names on the market, Davis’ combination of injuries, salary, and long-term financial expectations has cooled what had been real interest.

Dallas had explored the idea of reshaping its future around Cooper Flagg, but Davis has been sidelined since January 8 with ligament damage in his left hand.

He has resumed light on-court work while wearing a protective glove and opted against surgery in hopes of returning this season. A reevaluation is expected in late February. There is still no firm timetable.

Availability remains the central concern. Davis has missed 26 of the Mavericks’ 46 games. Meanwhile, his contract looms large. He is owed $58.5 million next season, holds a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28, and is expected to seek an extension when eligible in August.

While Davis trade talks have slowed, Dallas is drawing heavy interest in Naji Marshall. One Western Conference scout told Clark, “I think half the league is interested in him.” The Mavericks, however, prefer to keep him unless blown away.

Daniel Gafford is also drawing interest from center-needy teams such as Toronto, Atlanta, and Boston. His scoring is down, but his rim protection and efficiency remain valuable.