According to ESPN, Anthony Davis has become a crucial trade target for several Eastern Conference contenders ahead of the February deadline. The Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks and Toronto Raptors are expected to pursue the 10-time All-Star, who has spent his entire career in the Western Conference.
Davis’ agent, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, met with Mavericks interim co-general managers Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi. Paul asked for clarity on whether Dallas plans to extend Davis this offseason or trade him before the deadline. The franchise stated that it wants to keep its options open.
Davis will be eligible for a four-year, maximum $275 million extension on August 6. The deal would pay him $76 million in his age-37 season. Without an extension, he could become a free agent in 2027 if he declines his $62.8 million player option.
The 32-year-old was acquired in the controversial Luka Doncic trade last February. However, Kyrie Irving’s ACL injury and subsequent Cooper Flagg lottery win jeopardized Dallas’ vision under Nico Harrison, who was fired in November.
The Pistons (19-5), Raptors (15-10) and Hawks (14-11) represent high-level threats in the Eastern Conference. All three franchises believe Davis can develop them into championship-quality teams.
At 9-16, the Mavericks are in the picture but face roster decisions. The 2026 draft is the last one they have until 2031 and offers the opportunity to start working again on the deadline.
Teams are already preparing for talks with Dallas ahead of the trade deadline. Those discussions could lead to important decisions across the league.
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