Anthony Davis Open to Staying in Dallas - But the Mavericks Are Playing the Long Game
Anthony Davis may be in the middle of one of the most frustrating seasons of his career, but he’s not looking for the exit just yet. Despite the injuries, the noise, and the Mavericks’ struggles, Davis is reportedly open to finishing out the season in Dallas. And while that might not sound like headline news, it’s a notable stance in a league where stars often look for the quickest path out when things go south.
According to league sources, Davis “would welcome” staying with the Mavericks through the rest of the year. That’s coming from someone close to the process, and it adds a layer of intrigue to a situation that’s been anything but smooth.
His first season in Dallas has been rocky - injuries have limited his availability, and the team has been stuck in a downward spiral. Still, Davis isn’t pushing for a trade.
That’s something.
Of course, liking it in Dallas and staying in Dallas are two very different things - especially when you're a 10-time All-Star with a max extension looming and a hand injury that could sideline you for six weeks. Davis has reportedly opted against surgery on his left hand, a decision that keeps him in play for a potential trade before the deadline. It’s a calculated move - one that keeps doors open for both Davis and the Mavericks.
Dallas, meanwhile, is keeping its options open but isn’t in any kind of rush. Team sources say the Mavericks are engaged in trade discussions with multiple teams, but they’re making it clear: they’re only moving Davis if the deal makes sense.
No panic moves. No fire sale.
They’re holding firm on value, and they’ve got three weeks to see if anyone meets their price.
That’s where things get interesting. Several teams have reportedly shown interest - including the Hawks, Bucks, Raptors, and Warriors.
All of them could use a healthy Davis, especially if they see him as a missing piece for a playoff run. But any team trading for him has to weigh the risk.
He’s played just 20 games this season, and he’s on the books for $54.1 million. There’s also the matter of a potential four-year, $275 million extension this summer.
That’s a massive commitment for a player who’s dealt with his share of injuries.
Still, when he’s on the floor, Davis is producing. He’s averaging 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game - numbers that remind you just how impactful he can be when healthy. That kind of production doesn’t go unnoticed, especially for contenders looking to bolster their frontcourt with a two-way force.
From the Mavericks’ perspective, this isn’t just about Davis’ stats. It’s about the bigger picture.
The team is 15-26 and trying to find some direction. There’s been talk about eventually getting Davis and Kyrie Irving healthy at the same time, and pairing them with rookie Cooper Flagg to see what that trio looks like on the court.
That’s a vision worth exploring - if the team believes there’s still something to build around.
So while Davis may not be the long-term answer in Dallas, he’s not demanding a trade either. And the Mavericks?
They’re not settling for pennies on the dollar. If someone wants Davis, they’ll have to come correct.
In the meantime, Davis remains in Dallas - banged up, yes, but still a player who can shift the balance of power if he finds the right fit. Whether that’s in Dallas or somewhere else, the next few weeks will tell us a lot about how much value the league still places on one of the game’s most talented (if often unavailable) big men.