The Dallas Mavericks are entering a pivotal stage regarding the future of their star player, Anthony Davis. As the unofficial NBA trade season begins, with players signed in the offseason becoming eligible for trade on March 4, 2024, interest in Davis is intensifying. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, potential suitors include the Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors, and the Detroit Pistons, who currently lead the Eastern Conference.
While the Mavericks are exploring trade options, they are also considering the possibility of extending Davis’ contract during the upcoming offseason. However, any team looking to acquire him must weigh significant risks, including his age—he will turn 33 in March—and a troubling injury history. When healthy, Davis has proven he can elevate a team to contender status, as demonstrated during the Los Angeles Lakers’ championship run in the 2019-20 season.
The complex situation surrounding Davis has drawn attention from various stakeholders, including league executives who note that his trade value has diminished since his arrival in Dallas. He played in only nine games after being traded from the Lakers, suffering an eye injury that limited his offseason training. Currently, he has missed 15 of 25 games this season and is projected to finish below his average of 52 games per season since 2020-21. He is owed $120 million over the next two years and will be eligible to sign an extension in the summer.
Understanding the Risks of a Davis Trade
Davis’ ability to impact winning is beyond question, as evidenced by his championship experience and numerous accolades, including 10 All-NBA and All-Defensive honors. Before joining the Mavericks, he averaged 25.7 points and 11.9 rebounds per game. Nevertheless, teams interested in acquiring him must consider the potential pitfalls of his contract and injury concerns.
Should the Mavericks choose to trade Davis, they face a dilemma: act quickly before the deadline or wait until the offseason when his value might increase. However, delaying a trade could backfire if he suffers another injury. The Mavericks’ performance with Davis on the court has shown promise, as evidenced by his recent averages of 26.0 points and 12.6 rebounds during three consecutive wins against strong teams.
The Mavericks are also navigating a transition in their front office, which complicates trade negotiations. Interim co-general managers Matt Riccardi and Michael Finley will lead discussions, with head coach Jason Kidd playing a key role in decision-making. The franchise is expected to collaborate with Klutch Sports, Davis’ agency, to determine the best path forward.
Potential Trade Scenarios for Davis
Trade proposals for Davis are already circulating, with the Mavericks being courted by several teams. One possibility involves the Detroit Pistons, who could offer players like Tobias Harris and Jaden Ivey. This trade would provide the Mavericks with promising young talent, although they would not receive any draft picks, which may be a concern.
Another intriguing scenario involves the Atlanta Hawks, who could propose a multi-team deal that includes Zach LaVine. This complex arrangement would allow the Mavericks to gain valuable draft picks while offloading Davis’ hefty contract. The Toronto Raptors have also expressed interest, potentially offering R.J. Barrett and Jakob Poeltl, along with a couple of first-round draft picks.
In the event of a trade with the San Antonio Spurs, the Mavericks could achieve significant financial relief, as the Spurs have the capacity to take on Davis’ salary without sending equivalent contracts back. This trade could help the Mavericks avoid luxury tax implications while potentially acquiring younger assets.
The landscape of the NBA trade market is ever-evolving, and as the March deadline approaches, the Mavericks must navigate their options carefully. The decision to trade Davis will hinge not only on the offers received but also on the organization’s long-term vision and their assessment of his potential impact when healthy.