Mavericks’ Anthony Davis sporting sling, likely out for a while

The latest on Anthony Davis is not encouraging.

The Mavericks star was seen wearing a sling after suffering ligament damage in his left hand during Thursday’s loss to the Jazz, a setback that is expected to sideline him for a significant stretch.

Davis is currently seeking additional medical opinions, and if surgery is required, sources say the 10-time All-Star could be out at least six weeks, if not longer.

The injury comes at an especially inopportune time for Dallas. Davis has appeared in 20 games this season, averaging 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.7 blocks, while anchoring a roster that has struggled to find consistency.

The Mavericks sit at 14-24 entering Saturday night, 12th in the Western Conference, with little margin for error moving forward.

Before the injury, Dallas had quietly gauged the trade market on Davis, with teams such as the Hawks, Bucks, Warriors, and Raptors expressing varying degrees of interest, according to Dallas Hoops Journal. That interest is now expected to cool, with Davis likely remaining in Dallas through the deadline.

Sources told Dallas Hoops Journal that Davis had hoped a move would come with the promise of a contract extension, something his camp does not believe Dallas is prepared to offer. He is making $54.1 million this season and will be eligible for a four-year, $275 million extension in August.