NBA Roundup: Mavericks Revisit Anthony Davis Trade Talks; Jaylen Brown Nears Return; Joel Embiid Reports Improved Health
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Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks have reopened discussions about acquiring Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis, according to Shams Charania of ESPN. Veteran reporter Marc Stein confirmed the renewed talks but noted Dallas will only proceed if a deal clearly benefits the club’s long-term plans.
Both insiders emphasized the importance of this year’s draft position for the Mavericks. The 2023-24 season marks the last time Dallas controls its own first-round pick until 2031, a factor that could influence how quickly the team pushes Davis back onto the floor. Although the injury affects his non-shooting hand and optimism remains about a return, the organization may slow his timeline if it jeopardizes its lottery odds. “For all intents and purposes, meaningful basketball in Dallas for Davis this season is over,” Charania said.
Celtics
Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown is expected to play Thursday against the Miami Heat after missing two games with back spasms. Brown was recently fined $35,000 for criticizing officiating but has stood by his comments. The Celtics rank last in the league in free-throw attempts, a statistic Brown cited while arguing that Boston does not receive a consistent whistle. Head coach Joe Mazzulla agreed the team wants more calls but urged players to focus on areas they can control.
76ers
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid told reporters he feels “healthier than I have in two years,” as related by Tony Jones of The Athletic. While Embiid acknowledged he is not as explosive as before, he believes his consistency has returned. Guard Tyrese Maxey said the team is encouraged by Embiid’s commitment to treatment and recovery. “Just seeing him healthy, that is the stuff that really matters,” Maxey said.
Source: Hoops Wire
