Hawks remain intrigued by idea of trying to trade for Mavericks’ Anthony Davis

The Hawks remain very much interested in the idea of acquiring Anthony Davis, even if the path to a deal looks complicated.

NBA insider Chris Haynes said during an NBA on Prime broadcast that Atlanta is still “very intrigued” by Davis, adding that any serious talks would come without Trae Young included. Young holds a nearly $49 million player option for next season and could reach free agency if he declines it.

Instead, Haynes indicated that a Hawks package would likely revolve around expiring contracts, draft capital and young talent, potentially including 2024 No. one overall pick Zaccharie Risacher.

“Dallas would likely want expiring deals, young assets and picks,” Haynes said. “And probably, likely to include the number one pick from last season, Zaccharie Risacher.”

If Young is off the table, Kristaps Porzingis and his $30.7 million expiring contract would almost certainly be required to make the math work.

That lines up with earlier reporting from Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, who wrote this week that while Atlanta has checked in on Davis, there has been little momentum. Siegel added that the Hawks may ultimately prefer a lower-salary defensive upgrade if they choose to build a deal around Porzingis’ expiring money.

Trading for Davis would be a full-on swing. He is making just over $54 million this season, $58.4 million next year and holds a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28. Haynes noted that any team acquiring Davis would likely be expected to pursue a long-term extension, a significant gamble given his injury history.

Davis is currently dealing with a mild right groin strain and has appeared in only 16 games this season. Outside of his 76-game campaign with the Lakers in 2023/24, he has not played more than 62 games in any season since 2018/19.

From a basketball standpoint, the appeal is obvious. Atlanta’s defense has cratered during a five-game slide that dropped the club to 15-17. The Hawks have allowed at least 126 points in each of their last seven losses and are giving up 47.8 percent shooting overall, ranking 23rd in the league.

Davis would change that instantly. Whether Atlanta is willing to pay the price, in both assets and long-term risk, remains the real question.