As trade chatter heats up around the league, a compelling new scenario has surfaced: the Atlanta Hawks are reportedly exploring a potential deal for Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis. The framework?
A blockbuster centered around former No. 1 overall pick Zaccharie Risacher. It’s the kind of deal that could reshape both teams’ trajectories-and it speaks volumes about where each franchise sees itself heading.
For Atlanta, the interest in Davis signals a serious evaluation of their frontcourt and a willingness to make bold moves to compete now. The Hawks are currently 15-12 and getting ready to welcome back Trae Young, who’s been sidelined since late October with a sprained MCL. Young’s return Thursday night against the Hornets could be the spark Atlanta needs, and adding a player of Davis’ caliber would only elevate the ceiling.
So why Davis, and why now?
The 32-year-old big man remains one of the most versatile and impactful two-way players in the NBA-when healthy. Through 11 games this season, Davis is averaging 20 points, 10.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.6 blocks, and 1.4 steals per game.
He’s shooting an efficient 51.7 percent from the field and logging just under 30 minutes a night. That’s high-level production, even in limited action.
And while Dallas has stabilized somewhat after a rough 5-15 start-going 6-5 in games Davis has played and improving to 10-17 overall-his name continues to surface in trade discussions. The Mavericks are walking a tightrope: trying to build momentum in the short term while keeping an eye on long-term roster flexibility.
Davis is in the first season of a three-year, $175.6 million contract, with a massive $62.7 million player option looming in 2027-28. That kind of financial commitment gives teams pause, even when the talent is undeniable.
From Atlanta’s perspective, pairing Davis with Onyeka Okongwu could give them one of the most dynamic frontcourt duos in the league. Davis offers rim protection, rebounding, and offensive versatility-he’s a lob threat for Trae Young, a pick-and-roll partner, and a player who can stretch the floor when needed. In short, he does everything the Hawks hoped they’d get from Kristaps Porzingis.
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Speaking of Porzingis, the 30-year-old has had a limited role this season due to illness but has still been productive when available. He’s averaging 19.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.6 blocks while shooting nearly 50 percent from the field and 36.4 percent from deep.
He’s in the final year of a two-year, $60 million deal and set to hit free agency next summer. If Atlanta is looking to move on from Porzingis and retool around a healthier, more consistent frontcourt presence, Davis fits the bill.
But it wouldn’t come cheap. Zaccharie Risacher, the 2024 No. 1 overall pick, would likely be the centerpiece going the other way.
The 20-year-old wing has shown flashes of his potential in his second NBA season, averaging 11.2 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 46.3 percent from the floor. He’s still developing, but the upside is clear-and he’s on a team-friendly rookie deal, earning $13.1 million this season with a team option through 2027-28.
Trading a young, controllable asset like Risacher would be a bold move for Atlanta, but it’s not without logic. If they believe Davis can help them contend in the near term-and if they’re confident in his health-it’s a gamble that could pay off.
With Young returning and the team sitting above .500, the Hawks are at a crossroads. Do they build around their young core, or swing big for a proven star?
For Dallas, moving Davis would be about more than just shaking up the roster. It’s about recalibrating around Luka Dončić and finding the right mix of talent and financial flexibility. Risacher offers long-term upside and cap control, two things that could be attractive as the Mavericks try to build a more sustainable supporting cast.
As the trade deadline inches closer, both teams will have to weigh risk versus reward. Atlanta sees a window, and Davis-if healthy-could be the kind of player who changes everything. Dallas, meanwhile, has to decide if that window still includes Davis, or if it’s time to pivot.
One thing’s for sure: this is a trade rumor worth watching.