Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis. Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Mavericks star was likely rushed back from injury too soon

By Adam Taylor | Last updated Feb 11, 2025 5:28 PM ET

Anthony Davis' injury issues have followed him from the Los Angeles Lakers to the Dallas Mavericks. The All-Star big man left his debut game against the Houston Rockets on Saturday in the third quarter following some contact from Alperen Sengun.

According to ESPN's Tim MacMahon, Davis may have rushed himself back onto the court too quickly. He'd been dealing with an ab injury before being traded.

"As far as Anthony Davis, he was so determined to make a strong first impression," MacMahon said. "He did that during the first half, he was dominant. He came back from that ab injury, perhaps a little bit early. All that stuff's connected."

"[Anthony Davis] was so determined to make such a strong first impression. ... He came back from that ab injury, perhaps a little bit early."@espn_macmahon on the Mavericks in the aftermath of the Luka Doncic trade. pic.twitter.com/TzoUqtGgkn
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 11, 2025

GM Nico Harrison knew the risks when acquiring Davis. He consistently struggled for health and consistency during his tenure with the Lakers. The front office will now be hoping he can return in time to build some chemistry with his new teammates ahead of the postseason.

When healthy, Davis will be an anchor for Dallas' defense while also being a significant component of their offense. We saw the value he can bring to the rotation with the 26 points, 16 rebounds and seven assists he provided before getting hurt.

Dallas needed Davis to hit the ground running. Trading Luka Doncic is a wildly unpopular move within the fanbase. The fact his replacement is already sidelined has undoubtedly caused further frustration. Fortunately for the Mavericks front office, championships aren't won in February.

Still, the medical staff must ensure Davis is 100% healed before letting him back out on the court. Another spell on the sidelines would be a disastrous start, both for Davis, and Harrison, as well.

Adam Taylor

Adam Taylor is a sports journalist based out of the UK. Adam has been covering the NBA for nearly a decade with a core focus on the Boston Celtics. He currently holds bylines with Yardbarker, SB Nation and USA Today

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