Pistons, Hawks and Raptors Reportedly Pursuing Anthony Davis Ahead of Deadline
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The Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks and Toronto Raptors are expected to join the chase for Dallas Mavericks center Anthony Davis as the NBA trade deadline approaches, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on December 9.
All three Eastern Conference clubs see themselves as postseason threats in a crowded field and believe Davis could elevate them into championship contention, according to the report.
Davis, 32, has battled injuries throughout his career and missed time earlier this season with a calf strain. Since returning late last month, he has appeared in five of six games—playing both ends of a back-to-back—and is averaging 18.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 2.0 blocks in 28.4 minutes.
The eight-time All-Star is in the first year of a maximum-salary contract that pays $54.1 million this season, $58.5 million in 2026-27 and carries a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28. Any team acquiring him would need to match that significant salary.
Detroit could begin a package with Tobias Harris and his $26.6 million expiring deal, while Atlanta has Kristaps Porzingis on a $30.7 million expiring contract. Toronto could center an offer around RJ Barrett, who earns $27.7 million and has one additional season left. Larger salaries such as Hawks guard Trae Young ($46 million) and Raptors guard Immanuel Quickley ($32.5 million) could be included depending on trade structure.
The Pistons and Hawks possess more flexibility than the Raptors, who sit roughly $1 million below the first apron and must match incoming money nearly dollar for dollar.
All three franchises control multiple future first-round picks that could be used to sweeten proposals. Detroit and Toronto hold all of their own selections, while Atlanta owns two 2026 firsts, including the more favorable of the Pelicans’ and Bucks’ picks—currently projected in the top five—even though the Hawks have already dealt their 2027 pick.
Davis’ agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, recently met with Mavericks co-interim general managers Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi to discuss the team’s plans. Dallas is keeping its options open and will evaluate the roster’s performance in the coming weeks before deciding whether to trade or extend the veteran big man, Charania reported.
Source: Hoops Rumors
