The Atlanta Hawks and Dallas Mavericks remain in wait-and-see mode regarding a possible trade for Lakers star Anthony Davis, according to the latest newsletter from veteran reporter Marc Stein.
Hawks’ Tax Concerns Cloud Davis Pursuit
Atlanta’s long-standing reluctance to enter the luxury tax makes an in-season deal for Davis difficult. The 31-year-old big man is owed $58.5 million next season and $62.8 million in 2027/28. League sources told Stein the Hawks are unlikely to absorb that salary unless All-Star guard Trae Young—who holds a $48.9 million player option for 2026/27—is moved in the same transaction.
Although earlier reports suggested Atlanta might be willing to part with 2025 No. 1 overall pick Zaccharie Risacher in a blockbuster, Stein’s sources say a Davis deal would not trigger such a move during the season.
Mavericks Monitoring, Rich Paul’s Role
Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, Davis’s agent, maintains strong ties inside the Mavericks’ front office, and Stein writes that Paul views Atlanta as a favorable landing spot for his client—though any trade could be pushed to the offseason.
In the meantime, Dallas is taking a broad look at its 13-23 roster. The belief around the league, per Stein, is that every player except rookie forward Cooper Flagg and veteran guard Kyrie Irving could be made available after a stretch of six losses in eight games.
VanVleet Working Toward Comeback
The Houston Rockets are no longer ruling out a 2025/26 return for Fred VanVleet, who tore his ACL during an informal preseason mini-camp. The 31-year-old point guard is “attacking” rehabilitation with hopes of playing before season’s end, Stein reports.
Lakers Seek Two-Way Wing, Options Limited
Los Angeles continues to explore ways to add a defensive-minded wing such as Herbert Jones or Trey Murphy III, but multiple hurdles remain. Stein notes the Pelicans are viewed as unlikely to part with either player before the deadline, and the Lakers do not intend to forfeit future financial flexibility unless they acquire a clear difference-maker. With versatile wings among the league’s most coveted assets, the market for such players is expected to stay tight.
The trade deadline picture could shift over the coming weeks, yet for now both the Hawks and Mavericks appear content to wait on Davis, the Rockets are cautiously optimistic about VanVleet’s recovery, and the Lakers continue to monitor any sudden wing availability.
Source: Hoops Rumors
