The Dallas Mavericks are in no rush to make a move on Anthony Davis ahead of the upcoming trade deadline-and that’s not just posturing. According to league insiders, team governor Patrick Dumont and the Mavericks’ front office are standing firm: they’re not feeling any pressure to deal the All-Star big man, despite the swirl of speculation around his future.
“Patrick is not going to sign off on a deal just to do a deal,” one source close to the situation said. That sentiment is resonating throughout the organization, especially with Davis currently sidelined by a left hand injury that’s expected to keep him out until at least late February.
Davis, who was acquired from the Lakers in last season’s blockbuster Luka Dončić trade, has reportedly expressed a desire to stay in Dallas through the end of the season. And after the whirlwind of last year’s midseason relocation and a string of injuries that have limited his availability, it’s understandable why he’d want some stability.
There’s also the timing to consider. Davis suffered ligament damage in his left hand on January 8, and with the trade deadline looming on February 5, there’s little traction toward a deal. He’s not expected back until March, and at 33 years old-his birthday lands on March 11-his durability is increasingly becoming a key factor in his long-term value.
Through 20 games this season, Davis has been productive when healthy, averaging 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.7 blocks per contest. But availability has been the issue-he’s played just 29 total games since arriving in Dallas.
Still, there’s intrigue within the Mavericks’ organization about what Davis could look like on the floor next to Kyrie Irving and rookie sensation Cooper Flagg. That trio, on paper, offers a tantalizing mix of experience, shot creation, and two-way potential.
But Dallas also has to think long-term. The 2026 NBA Draft marks the last time the Mavs will control their own first-round pick until 2031, so there’s a strategic incentive to remain in the lottery mix this season.
Financially, Davis is earning $54.1 million this year and becomes eligible for a four-year, $275 million extension this summer. According to sources, agent Rich Paul is focused on securing that extension in the offseason.
But it’s unclear whether Dallas will be willing to commit that kind of money given Davis’ age and injury history. That uncertainty is reportedly why Paul would prefer to see Davis moved before the deadline.
Prior to his injury, Davis had drawn interest from teams like the Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors, and Golden State Warriors. While he doesn’t have a no-trade clause, his market is complicated by both his current health and the size of his contract.
A Chicago native and former No. 1 overall pick, Davis has built a Hall of Fame résumé with career averages of 24.0 points, 10.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.3 steals, and 2.3 blocks per game. He won a title with the Lakers in 2020 and was named one of the NBA’s 75 greatest players of all time.
As it stands, the Mavericks are 12th in the Western Conference and facing a critical stretch of the season without one of their most talented players. Whether Davis finishes the year in Dallas or elsewhere remains to be seen-but for now, the Mavericks are content to wait, watch, and weigh their options carefully.