Rich Paul presses Mavericks on trade or extension plans for Anthony Davis
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Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul has asked the Dallas Mavericks to clarify whether they intend to shop Anthony Davis before the trade deadline or pursue a long-term deal with the All-Star forward, league sources told Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
The inquiry comes as Dallas weighs its roster direction. Front-office executives must decide if they will build around rookie Cooper Flagg and reset the roster or continue viewing Davis, 30, as the franchise anchor of a championship push.
Davis’ availability complicates the decision. Since arriving last season in the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to Los Angeles, the eight-time All-Star has appeared in just 20 games for Dallas—only 11 contests this season because of a left calf strain. He is averaging 20.0 points, 10.5 rebounds and nearly 2 blocks per game when healthy.
Rival teams such as the Atlanta Hawks, Detroit Pistons and Toronto Raptors have been mentioned in league speculation, though the Mavericks have reportedly shown little interest in deals aimed solely at cutting payroll.
Davis is earning $54.1 million this season and is owed $58.5 million in 2026-27. He holds a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28 and becomes eligible in August for a four-year, $275 million maximum extension.
The trade deadline is still weeks away, giving Dallas time to determine whether Davis remains central to its plans or becomes one of the market’s most notable names.
Source: Hoops Wire