As the NBA's February trade deadline approaches, the Dallas Mavericks are reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring star forward-center Anthony Davis. This move comes despite concerns surrounding his hefty contract and injury history, which have limited his availability for the Mavericks this season.
Warriors Remain Cautious, Hawks Emerge as Suitors
While the Mavericks are making calls, the Golden State Warriors have shown significant reluctance to engage in a serious deal for Anthony Davis. According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, Warriors sources are "staunchly" against trading key veterans like Draymond Green to facilitate a move. A financial swap involving Jimmy Butler, who earns $54.1 million this season similar to Davis, has also been dismissed by the Golden State front office.
Amick noted that it was the Mavericks who initiated contact with the Warriors about Davis, not the other way around, indicating a lack of aggressive pursuit from Golden State. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Hawks have clearly emerged as the most likely bidder for Davis's services, adding a new dynamic to the trade discussions.
Financial Hurdles and the Giannis Factor
Any potential trade faces massive financial complications. Anthony Davis is earning a massive $54 million this season, and his contract will see him make nearly $63 million by the time he is 34. The Golden State Warriors, operating close to the second apron, would find it nearly impossible to match salaries without losing a crucial veteran piece. Their interest in a deal is further cooled by their reported attraction to young Mavericks forward Jonathan Kuminga, whose $22.5 million salary is far less than Davis's.
Another major factor influencing the trade market is the situation of Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. NBA insider Jake Fischer suggested that teams interested in Davis might want to "hold their powder" and wait to see if Giannis becomes available in the summer. Although only a year younger than Davis, Giannis is considered one of the league's elite players, and his potential availability would create a frenzy, potentially diminishing the demand for Davis.
Will Davis Stay in Dallas?
Despite the swirling rumours, the prevailing assumption in league circles is that Anthony Davis will remain with the Dallas Mavericks at least until the season's end. Fischer indicated that most are "operating under the assumption" Davis stays put before the February deadline. Further reports suggest that Mavericks' decision-makers want to see Davis play more alongside stars like Kyrie Irving and potential assets before committing to a trade.
On the court, Davis remains a potent force when healthy, averaging 20.5 points per game this season and 24 points per game for his career. He is regarded as one of the league's top roll finishers, offering a unique pick-and-roll threat, even if his three-point shooting doesn't spread the floor.
The coming weeks leading to the February trade deadline will be crucial in determining whether Anthony Davis dons a new jersey or continues his journey with the Dallas Mavericks, as teams weigh his superstar talent against his contract and injury concerns.
