Injury, contract concerns stall Mavericks’ Anthony Davis trade talks
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With the NBA’s Feb. 5 trade deadline fast approaching, front-office conversations about Dallas forward / center Anthony Davis have largely gone quiet, according to league executives.
Davis, obtained by the Mavericks last February, has played only 29 games this season while recovering from ligament damage in his left hand. He chose rehabilitation over surgery and is expected to need roughly six weeks to heal, a timetable that has complicated any potential deal.
The 30-year-old is averaging 20.2 points, 10.8 rebounds and 3.3 assists—strong production, though below his career norms. Rival teams previously linked to Davis, including the Toronto Raptors and Atlanta Hawks, have not gained traction in recent discussions, multiple executives told DallasHoopsJournal.com’s Grant Afseth.
Contract logistics add another hurdle. Davis is signed through the 2027-28 season and holds a $62.7 million player option for next year. He also becomes extension-eligible this summer, and sources say his representatives want clarity on a long-term agreement—something Dallas is not prepared to address at the moment.
Several executives believe a more active market could emerge later, when the veteran’s deal is closer to expiring and the financial commitment appears less daunting.
Interest in Mavericks’ supporting cast
While Davis remains the primary focus, opposing clubs have also asked about complementary pieces. Forward Naji Marshall, enjoying a career-best 14.0 points per game on 54.3 percent shooting, continues to draw interest. Center Daniel Gafford is another target, though executives have expressed concern about the lingering ankle issue that has limited his availability.
Elsewhere around the league, Klay Thompson’s recent shooting uptick and D’Angelo Russell’s diminished role have kept both players on scouting radar as possible trade candidates.
Source: Hoops Wire
