Anthony Davis Injury Update Reignites Trade Talks as Hawks, Raptors Circle
Just when it seemed like Anthony Davis’ season - and trade value - might be on ice, the latest update has flipped the narrative. What was initially feared to be a season-ending hand injury requiring surgery now appears less severe. Davis won’t need surgery after all, and while he’ll still be sidelined for the next six weeks, the door is back open for a potential move before the trade deadline.
That’s a significant shift, not just for Davis, but for the Dallas Mavericks, who had reportedly been exploring trade options even before the injury. With the news that he’ll be re-evaluated rather than shelved for the year, teams are once again picking up the phone.
According to NBA insider Shams Charania, two Eastern Conference teams are staying aggressive in their pursuit: the Atlanta Hawks and the Toronto Raptors. Both franchises are reportedly in regular contact with Dallas, weighing whether a deal for Davis - even with his injury history - could be the kind of swing that changes their postseason trajectory.
Let’s unpack that. Atlanta has been linked to Davis more than any other team so far.
The Hawks have made no secret of their interest in the star big man, despite his durability concerns. For a team that’s been hovering around the middle of the pack, adding a player of Davis’ caliber - even if he’s not immediately available - could be a calculated gamble on upside.
Davis, when healthy, is still one of the most impactful two-way players in the league.
Toronto, meanwhile, brings a different kind of leverage to the table. The Raptors have a deep pool of young talent and intriguing assets that could appeal to Dallas, especially if the Mavericks are looking to reset their roster or gain future flexibility. Toronto’s front office has a history of making bold moves (see: Kawhi Leonard), and they’re clearly not afraid to roll the dice if they believe Davis could be a long-term fit.
But here’s the catch - Davis’ trade value isn’t what it used to be. As Charania put it, “The reality right now…is the value is just lower for Anthony Davis.”
That’s the market speaking. Teams know what Davis can do when he’s on the floor, but they also know how often he’s not.
That uncertainty is baked into every trade conversation.
Still, there’s another layer here. According to Sam Amick, Davis’ camp has a strong preference for a destination where an extension is more likely.
That means any potential trade isn’t just about the rest of this season - it’s about long-term fit and commitment. Davis and his team are eyeing a situation where he can settle in and thrive, not just serve as a temporary rental.
Dallas, for its part, seems to be approaching this with a sense of purpose. Despite the injury setbacks, they’re not just looking to offload Davis - they’re trying to find the right situation for both sides. Whether that means acquiring future assets, gaining financial flexibility, or simply reshaping the roster around Luka Dončić, the Mavericks are clearly keeping all options on the table.
So here we are: Davis is hurt, but not out. The trade chatter is heating back up.
And two Eastern Conference teams are circling, hoping to make a move that could shift the balance of power in the second half of the season. The clock’s ticking toward the deadline - and Anthony Davis is back in play.