Why the Mavericks Should Seriously Consider the Bucks as a Trade Partner for Anthony Davis
Anthony Davis’ name has been floating in trade rumors for a while now, and as the NBA trade deadline creeps closer, the Dallas Mavericks might want to keep a close eye on Milwaukee. The Bucks, fresh off swirling speculation about Giannis Antetokounmpo’s long-term happiness, are in a position where making a bold move could be the difference between keeping their superstar content or risking a franchise-altering exit.
Let’s break this down.
The Giannis Factor: Why the Bucks Might Be Ready to Make a Splash
Giannis has recently said he’s “locked in” with the Bucks, but let’s be real-words only go so far in the NBA. Milwaukee hasn’t made it out of the first round in three straight postseasons, and that’s not the kind of trajectory that keeps a two-time MVP satisfied.
The Bucks know they need to act. Standing pat hasn’t worked.
If they want to truly convince Giannis they’re serious about competing for another title, they need to bring in a player who can elevate this roster immediately. That’s where Anthony Davis comes in.
Davis, when healthy, is still one of the most dominant two-way big men in the league. Pairing him with Giannis would instantly create one of the most intimidating frontcourts in the NBA-two elite defenders, both capable of anchoring a defense and punishing teams in the paint.
Offensively, Davis gives Giannis a co-star who doesn’t need the ball in his hands every possession but can still go for 25 and 10 on any given night. Defensively, they’d be a nightmare-rim protection, switchability, rebounding, you name it.
What’s in It for Dallas?
On the flip side, the Mavericks are facing a potential crossroads. With Cooper Flagg showing serious promise, the front office might be leaning toward a youth movement. Trading Davis would be a clear signal that they’re ready to pivot to a longer-term vision, building around Flagg and stockpiling assets for the future.
And that’s where Milwaukee’s situation gets interesting.
The Bucks, like the Mavericks, have limited control over their own first-round picks until 2031. But they do own their 2031 and 2032 first-rounders-two assets that could quietly become some of the most valuable chips on the board.
Why? Because there’s no guarantee the Bucks will still be contenders by then.
If Giannis eventually decides to move on, or if age and roster stagnation catch up with Milwaukee, those picks could land high in the lottery. For a Mavericks team looking to build a future core around Flagg, that’s gold.
A Trade That Makes Sense for Both Sides
Milwaukee needs to win now. Dallas may be ready to build for tomorrow. That’s the kind of dynamic that often leads to trades.
The Bucks probably won’t be able to offer the kind of high-upside young players Dallas might want in a typical rebuild deal. But if the Mavericks are thinking long-term, those 2031 and 2032 first-rounders could be exactly the kind of assets that help them stay competitive in the post-Davis era.
There’s also a strategic angle here-if Dallas waits too long, Milwaukee might turn elsewhere. But if they move now, they could capitalize on the Bucks’ urgency and extract maximum value.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t about blowing things up just for the sake of it. It’s about timing.
Davis still holds significant value, especially to a team like Milwaukee that’s desperate to reassert itself as a title contender. If Dallas is serious about building around Cooper Flagg and setting up for sustained success, flipping Davis for future firsts-especially ones that could land in the lottery-might be the smartest move they can make.
The Bucks want to win now. The Mavericks may be ready to build for later. That’s a trade conversation worth having.