The Dallas Mavericks are increasingly open to moving Anthony Davis ahead of the NBA trade deadline, even if the return prioritizes financial flexibility over long-term assets.
ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reported on Monday, February 2, that Dallas has spent months exploring the trade market for the 32-year-old forward as the franchise reassesses its timeline.
According to MacMahon, Davis does not align with the Mavericks’ long-term outlook, particularly as the organization shifts its focus toward building around rookie cornerstone Cooper Flagg.
Davis is in the first season of a three-year, $175 million contract that includes a player option in the final year, a structure that complicates trade negotiations but also creates future leverage.
The ideal return, per ESPN, would include first-round draft compensation, young talent, and expiring contracts to clear future cap space.
However, MacMahon noted that some voices within the organization would support trading Davis even if the package consists only of expiring deals, valuing flexibility over on-court return.
That stance is not universally shared. Mavericks governor Patrick Dumont, who holds final decision-making authority, feels no urgency to trade Davis before the deadline, sources told ESPN.
Dumont’s position is strengthened by timing and health considerations, as Davis is currently sidelined with ligament damage in his left hand and is not expected back until at least late February.
Dallas sits 11th in the Western Conference at 19-30, a record that reflects the franchise’s transitional phase rather than immediate contention.
When available, Davis has been productive. He is averaging 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks while shooting 50.6 percent from the field across 20 games.
Those numbers reflect continued impact, but availability remains a concern, reinforcing league-wide caution about absorbing his long-term salary.
The Mavericks’ on-court identity has already shifted. Flagg, the 19-year-old first overall pick, is averaging 19.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists while starting all 45 games this season.
Dallas has also invested minutes in younger rotation pieces such as Max Christie, Ryan Nembhard, and Daniel Gafford, signaling a developmental priority.
Trading Davis for expiring contracts would give the front office greater cap flexibility entering future offseasons, even if it sacrifices immediate talent.
MacMahon emphasized that such a move would be difficult to justify publicly, especially without draft compensation, which explains the cautious approach from ownership.
