The Toronto Raptors have surfaced as the most serious Eastern Conference team pursuing a potential deal for Anthony Davis, according to multiple league insiders.
Raptors
On the “DLLS Mavs” podcast, veteran reporter Marc Stein said Toronto has shown “definite” interest in the Dallas Mavericks big man, outpacing other clubs linked to Davis. Stein added that Atlanta’s involvement remains only exploratory, while Detroit’s interest may have been overstated.
Michael Scotto of HoopsHype echoed that assessment, noting that the Pistons appear reluctant to make a major in-season move. Scotto added that Dallas is still weighing Davis’s health, his fit alongside rookie Cooper Flagg and how much the 31-year-old could impact the current roster.
Scotto also confirmed earlier reporting from Jake Fischer that Toronto previously inquired about Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis during the summer. While that pursuit is not active, Kings general manager Scott Perry—who drafted Raptors wing RJ Barrett while in New York—remains fond of Barrett, and Toronto has quietly gauged the forward’s market value, sources told HoopsHype.
Hawks
Kristaps Porzingis is considered a viable trade chip for the Atlanta Hawks, despite the center’s inconsistent availability. Porzingis is earning $30.7 million in the final season of his contract, and Scotto reported that Atlanta is expected to shop the expiring deal while exploring roster upgrades.
The Hawks are also monitoring the Davis situation, but league sources continue to characterize their interest as exploratory rather than aggressive.
Warriors
The Golden State Warriors appear unlikely to move All-Stars Jimmy Butler or Draymond Green unless superstar Stephen Curry fully endorses such a change, NBC Sports Bay Area’s Monte Poole said. Poole did not dismiss the possibility outright but described it as “improbable” at this stage.
To date, Butler and Green have only been linked to trade chatter involving Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. Absent that scenario, Golden State is expected to keep its core intact.
Source: Hoops Wire
