NBA Roundup: Davis Trade Talks Reignite, Brown Eyes Return, and Embiid Finds His Rhythm
Mavericks Weighing Future as Davis Trade Talks Resume
The trade buzz around Anthony Davis is heating up again in Dallas. After a stretch of mixed signals, the Mavericks have reopened discussions involving the All-Star big man, according to reports from Shams Charania and Marc Stein. But here’s the key: Dallas isn’t moving Davis unless the return clearly strengthens their long-term outlook.
That tells us a lot about where this front office’s head is at. This isn’t about a quick fix or a panic move.
It’s about building something sustainable-and that might mean waiting until the offseason, much like Phoenix did with Kevin Durant. The Mavericks know they’re working with a narrow window when it comes to draft capital.
This is the final year they control their own first-round pick until 2031, and that fact is looming large over every decision.
There’s also the matter of Davis’ injury. It’s his non-shooting hand, and there’s optimism about a return, but Dallas may not rush him back if it means jeopardizing their lottery odds.
That’s a tough balance-playing to win while also protecting the future. But right now, it sounds like Davis’ season in Dallas could be winding down, at least in terms of meaningful minutes.
“For all intents and purposes, meaningful basketball in Dallas for Davis this season is over,” Charania reported.
Jaylen Brown Set to Return, Keeps Pressure on the Whistle
In Boston, Jaylen Brown is expected to return to the floor Thursday against the Miami Heat after missing two games with back spasms. That’s welcome news for a Celtics squad that continues to push for Eastern Conference dominance.
But Brown hasn’t just been sidelined physically-he’s also been making noise off the court. The league hit him with a $35,000 fine for criticizing officiating, and he’s not backing down.
His frustration? The Celtics rank dead last in the NBA in free throw attempts.
That’s not just a stat-it’s a signal, and Brown’s been waving the flag.
Coach Joe Mazzulla didn’t dismiss the concerns, though he emphasized focusing on what the team can control. Still, the message from Brown was clear: Boston wants a fair shake, especially as the games start to matter more.
Embiid Feeling Healthier, Happier-and That’s Big for Philly
In Philadelphia, Joel Embiid is quietly putting together one of the more encouraging personal storylines of the season. According to The Athletic’s Tony Jones, Embiid says he feels healthier than he has in two years. That might not show up in a highlight reel of thunderous dunks, but it’s showing up in his consistency-and that’s huge for the Sixers.
He’s not quite as explosive, but he’s steady. And that steadiness is exactly what Philly needs as they try to build chemistry and momentum heading into the second half of the season.
“What we love is that he looks happy,” said Tyrese Maxey. “We want him to be happy, more than anything. And he looks healthy.”
Maxey also pointed out how seriously Embiid is taking his recovery-staying on top of treatments, icing, and working closely with the training staff. That kind of commitment behind the scenes often goes unnoticed, but it’s the foundation of long-term availability. And for a player like Embiid, availability is everything.
Right now, the Sixers are seeing a version of their MVP that’s not just physically present-but emotionally locked in. That’s a win, no matter what the box score says.