Raptors Back Off Anthony Davis Trade Talks Amid Injury Concerns - What's Next for Toronto?
The Toronto Raptors have been one of the more active teams on the rumor mill as the trade deadline approaches, but it looks like fans can officially cross one big name off their wish list: Anthony Davis.
According to recent reporting, Toronto has pulled back from any significant trade talks involving the Mavericks big man. The Raptors had been one of the more intriguing potential landing spots for Davis, but with Dallas announcing that he’ll miss at least six weeks due to a hand injury, the market for the 32-year-old has cooled considerably - not just in Toronto, but league-wide.
The Atlanta Hawks, another team previously linked to Davis, are reportedly in the same boat. While there’s been some chatter suggesting teams might still explore a deal despite the injury, the reality is that Davis' availability - or lack thereof - has made this a much tougher sell.
Let’s be honest: even if Davis were healthy, trading for him would’ve been a gamble. Since being acquired by Dallas last season, Davis has suited up for just 29 games.
That’s not exactly the kind of track record that inspires confidence, especially for a team like Toronto that’s trying to build something sustainable. Add in the fact that he’s eligible for a contract extension this summer, and the risk-reward equation starts to tilt heavily toward the "risk" side.
There’s no doubt the idea of Davis in a Raptors jersey is intriguing. He’s still a game-changer when he’s on the floor - a two-way force who can anchor a defense and stretch the floor on offense.
But that’s the catch: when he’s on the floor. And with the clock ticking toward the trade deadline, Toronto seems to have decided that now isn’t the time to roll the dice.
If Davis were healthy, maybe the Raptors stay in the mix. Maybe the Mavericks - still trying to salvage value after sending Luka Dončić to the Lakers in that blockbuster deal - would’ve tried to drive up the price. But the reality is, it’s hard to sell high on a player who can’t stay on the court.
So, where does that leave Toronto?
The Raptors still have their eyes on making a move, and one name that’s surfaced is Domantas Sabonis. He fits the mold of what Toronto appears to be targeting: a high-impact big who can contribute right away. But like Davis, there are questions about whether Sabonis is the right fit - and whether the cost to acquire him would outweigh the potential upside.
At this point, it’s entirely possible the Raptors stand pat at the deadline. And that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
They’ve been aggressive in exploring ways to upgrade the roster, but forcing a deal just to make a splash doesn’t always work out. Sometimes the best move is the one you don’t make.
And let’s not forget - the offseason could bring even bigger opportunities. There’s already some quiet buzz that a certain two-time MVP might be on the move this summer.
Yes, that MVP. If Giannis Antetokounmpo becomes available, Toronto would be wise to keep its powder dry and be ready to pounce.
For now, the Raptors are playing it smart. They’ve taken a long look at Anthony Davis and decided the timing, the injury risk, and the financial implications just don’t add up.
That’s not a retreat - it’s a calculated decision. And with the trade deadline approaching, the front office still has time to find the right move.
Or wait for a better one.