Anthony Davis made it clear that his focus in Dallas has not shifted since the blockbuster trade that sent him from Los Angeles to the Mavericks earlier this year. According to Grant Afseth of the Dallas Hoops Journal, the All-Star forward reaffirmed his championship mindset as the new season approaches.
“When I got traded, when I had a press conference, nothing changes for me,” Davis said. “The goal is still to bring a championship here. I think we have a good ballclub. I think our biggest thing as a team is our health – staying healthy.”
Davis arrived in Dallas on February 2 in a high-profile deal that sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers. The trade, which also involved multiple picks and players, reshaped both franchises and became one of the most significant midseason transactions in league history.
Since joining the Mavericks, Davis has embraced the challenge of leading a restructured roster under head coach Jason Kidd. “I know they’re going to be looking on me to kind of lead them,” Davis said. “Just kind of what J-Kidd and Nico [Harrison] have been telling me to do all summer, so I’ve been texting these guys and trying to get them ready for the season, especially with Kai’s out.”
With Kyrie Irving recovering from injury, Davis is expected to be the team’s vocal leader and anchor on both ends of the floor. He mentioned that Klay Thompson, who signed with Dallas in free agency last summer, is also playing a key leadership role. “I know they’re used to him kind of being the leader, but I’ve kind of just taken on that role with the help of actually Klay as well, as being two of the three oldest guys on the team,” Davis added.
The 32-year-old forward averaged 25.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks in his final season with the Lakers before joining the Mavericks, where he continued to produce at an elite level.
For Dallas, maintaining health and chemistry will be critical after narrowly missing the playoffs last season. Davis believes that if the Mavericks stay healthy, they have the tools to compete for a title. “Other than that, I think we can be fine,” he said. “I’m happy to be here, I’m excited to be here, and I want to win here.”
