The Dallas Mavericks' hopes of turning their season around have been dealt a significant blow, as star player Anthony Davis is expected to undergo surgery to repair ligament damage in his left hand, according to sources close to the situation. The procedure will likely keep Davis sidelined for several months, effectively ending his season with the Mavericks.
With the team currently sitting at 15-25 and 12th in the Western Conference, the prognosis for Davis' injury has sparked renewed trade talks between the Mavericks and multiple interested teams, sources revealed. The possibility of Davis being traded to a playoff contender, such as the Toronto Raptors or Atlanta Hawks, could allow him to return to the court during the postseason and establish himself as a key player for his new team.
Impact on the Mavericks' SeasonThe Mavericks' decision to trade for Davis in February 2025 was met with controversy, particularly given the departure of Luka Doncic. However, the team had hoped that Davis' presence would help turn their fortunes around. Unfortunately, a series of injuries has limited Davis to just 29 regular-season games in a Mavericks uniform, and the team's record reflects his absence. With Davis in the lineup, the Mavericks are 10-10, but without him, they have struggled to a 5-15 record.
In the 20 games he has played this season, Davis has averaged an impressive 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game. His absence will be deeply felt, and the team will need to rely on other players to step up and fill the void. Rookie of the Year candidate Cooper Flagg will be one of the players expected to take on a larger role in Davis' absence.
The Mavericks' priority is to build for the long term, and the trade talks surrounding Davis are a clear indication of this. With the team's first-round pick in this year's NBA draft being the last one they control until 2031, the Mavericks are keen to make the most of this opportunity and secure a strong foundation for the future.
Several teams have expressed interest in acquiring Davis, and the Mavericks are weighing their options carefully. The Toronto Raptors and Atlanta Hawks are two teams that have been mentioned as potential suitors, and both teams could offer Davis a chance to compete for a playoff spot. Other teams may also enter the fray, and the Mavericks will need to consider the best offer for their star player.
The situation is complex, and the Mavericks will need to navigate the trade market carefully. However, one thing is clear: Anthony Davis' time in Dallas is likely coming to an end, and the team will need to look to the future and build around their young core of players.
As the NBA trade deadline approaches, the Mavericks will be busy evaluating their options and considering the best course of action. The team's fans will be watching with bated breath, hoping that the front office can make the right moves to set the team up for success in the years to come. With the right trade, the Mavericks could be back in contention sooner rather than later, and the future could be bright for the team and its fans.
Original: ESPN
Image: ESPN
Written by Npsports
