Mar 8, 2026; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Washington Wizards forward Anthony Davis (23) watches during the first half against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

Wizards' Anthony Davis Making Progress in Injury Recovery

Originally posted on Washington Wizards on SI
By Owen Jury | Last updated Apr 1, 2026 7:37 AM ET

One of, if not the biggest stories to come out of the Washington Wizards' 2025–26 campaign was the trade that landed Washington All-NBA big man Anthony Davis from the Dallas Mavericks. The Wizards acquired Davis knowing that it was going to be a slow burn with him, as they traded for him with the knowledge that he was dealing with a ligament injury in his hand. The initial sentiment was that he would not suit up for Washington this season, but as his recovery progressed, some hope began to emerge that he would make an appearance.

On top of that, general manager Will Hardy stated that it was in the plans for Davis to suit up this year alongside fellow All-Star Trae Young, who they also acquired via trade. But as the season dwindles down, it is becoming less and less likely that said game will happen. However, some recent news has made it seem as if Davis might just sneak an appearance in before the season's end.

ANTHONY DAVIS INJURY UPDATE pic.twitter.com/xeZh9HE0X7
— Wizards PR (@WizPRStats) March 31, 2026

In a recent statement from Wizards PR, the team stated that he has been cleared for light contact and is progressing toward a full return, although a timeline was still not set. With Washington only having seven games remaining in its season, it still seems unlikely that he will make his return, and if he does, it will likely only be for a game or two.

Wizards' Outlook for Rest of Season

The Wizards have already virtually shut down Young and Kyshawn George, preserving their health and bodies for next season when the team will look to make a real push to win games. However, with Washington looking to tank for the rest of this season, having that much talent on the floor may be counterintuitive to the team’s plans.

With that in mind, Washington still has not technically shut down anyone except for Cam Whitmore, leaving a window open for a potential full squad return. It still is heavily implied that this isn't in the Wizards' plans, as any loss for the rest of this season could prove to be detrimental to their standing in the tank race.

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

However, if Washington can solidify its place at the bottom of the NBA before the season runs out, the stars could align for a grand return. The odds of this remain unlikely, as even if Davis is fully healthy, his extensive past of injuries would make the team reluctant to play him. However, a heavy minutes restriction and a flurry of losses may create the perfect storm for a return of one of the NBA’s best big men.

This article first appeared on Washington Wizards on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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