Mavericks big man Anthony Davis remains very much in the trade conversation, even after a hand injury that is expected to sideline him through the Feb. 5 deadline and beyond.
That is not a concern for his agent.
ESPN’s Tim MacMahon said on The Hoop Collective podcast that Rich Paul would like to see Davis moved before the deadline, believing it is in his client’s best business interest. According to MacMahon, Paul views Dallas’ noncommittal stance on a future extension as a likely no and sees other teams as more willing to offer the long-term deal Davis will be eligible for in August.
Davis is owed $54.1 million this season, $58.5 million next season and holds a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28. While there is no urgency financially, multiple reports have indicated an extension remains a priority for the 10-time All-Star, who turns 33 in March.
From the Mavericks’ side, the message has been consistent. Dallas is open to listening but not desperate to deal. MacMahon reported the team has made clear it will only pursue a trade that brings back meaningful draft compensation, young talent and some financial relief.
The Hawks and Raptors have been most frequently linked to Davis, with the Bucks and Warriors also mentioned as teams with interest. Davis has averaged 20.2 points and 10.8 rebounds when healthy in Dallas, but durability concerns and his contract continue to shape the market.
With limited draft control in future years and a front office still in transition, Dallas may ultimately prefer patience, revisiting Davis’ future in the offseason rather than forcing a move now.
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This is a no-win situation for Dallas. No one right now is going to offer Dallas anything near what they want for Davis given his injury history and contract situation. And I don’t see how that’s going to change between now and the end of the season. Everyone in the league knows he doesn’t fit into the Mav’s long-term plans and his salary is an obstacle to signing someone younger and fitter who does. Ideally they find a suitor before the deadline who sees enough short-term upside to offer Dallas at least potential future value in exchange. I really don’t think the Mavs want to have to make decision on his option at the end of the year.