The Anthony Davis trade rumors are heating up again - and this time, Atlanta is stepping into the spotlight.
A new trade scenario has surfaced, linking Davis to the Hawks in a deal that would shake up the Eastern Conference landscape and give Trae Young a frontcourt partner with serious star power. The hypothetical deal, proposed by NBA writer Zach Buckley, would send Davis from Dallas to Atlanta in exchange for a mix of veterans, young talent, and a future pick.
Here’s the proposed trade:
Hawks receive:
- Anthony Davis
Mavericks receive:
- Kristaps Porzingis
- Asa Newell
- Luke Kennard
- 2027 first-round pick (top-four protected, via New Orleans or Milwaukee)
Let’s break this down.
Why Atlanta Makes Sense
The Hawks are sitting at 15-12 - good, not great - and clearly looking for a move that bumps them into the upper tier of the East. Pairing Davis with Trae Young gives Atlanta a dynamic inside-outside duo that could instantly change the team’s identity. Davis brings elite rim protection, rebounding, and versatility on both ends, something the Hawks have lacked in their frontcourt.
This isn’t just a star-chasing move - it’s a calculated push to maximize the prime years of Young’s career. Atlanta’s brass has reportedly had interest in Davis, and this kind of swing would signal they’re serious about building a contender now, not later.
What Dallas Gets in Return
On the other side, Dallas is 10-16 and clearly searching for answers post-Luka Doncic. Davis has put up solid numbers - 20.0 points and 10.5 rebounds in 20 games since arriving in the Doncic trade - but the fit hasn’t been seamless. With Davis earning $54.1 million this season and owed $58.5 million next year (plus a $62.8 million player option in 2027-28), the Mavericks may be looking to pivot while his value remains high.
This proposed package gives Dallas some flexibility and future upside. Kristaps Porzingis, who’s on an expiring deal and familiar with Dallas from his previous stint, could serve as a short-term placeholder or be flipped again before the deadline. Rookie Asa Newell brings long-term intrigue - a high-upside forward who could slot in nicely alongside Cooper Flagg and Dereck Lively II in a revamped frontcourt.
Luke Kennard adds shooting and veteran experience, and that 2027 first-rounder (even with top-four protection) gives Dallas another asset to work with, whether for development or a future deal.
What’s Next?
There’s no indication that a deal is imminent, but this framework is more than just fantasy. It reflects the kind of strategic thinking both franchises are likely weighing.
Atlanta wants to win now. Dallas might be ready to reset - or at least retool - around a younger, more flexible core.
And while the Mavericks could potentially reroute a veteran like Porzingis or Kennard for additional picks or depth, the key here is Newell’s upside and the future first-rounder. That’s the kind of return that could help Dallas build a more sustainable roster - one that doesn’t rely on a single superstar to carry the load.
The NBA trade season is just getting started, and if this proposal is any indication, the next few months could be anything but quiet.