Washington Wizards general manager Will Dawkins says Anthony Davis is entering the season focused and ready to perform despite not having agreed to a contract extension with the franchise.
“AD’s in a great frame of mind, focused and ready to start the season… I expect AD to remind the basketball world who he is,” Dawkins said.
Davis and the Wizards have mutually agreed to postpone discussions about a contract extension until after the regular season begins. The veteran big man is eligible for a maximum four-year extension worth up to $275 million, but there are currently no plans for the sides to negotiate before the start of the season.
ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk reported that Davis could potentially seek a trade if Washington gets off to a poor start. That would make the opening portion of the season particularly important for both Davis and the Wizards as the organization evaluates its new-look roster.
Davis was acquired by Washington from the Dallas Mavericks at the February trade deadline in a three-team deal. He played 20 games for Dallas before the trade, averaging 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.1 steals and 1.7 blocks in 31.3 minutes per game. He shot 50.6% from the field and 27.0% from three-point range while starting every game.
Availability has been a significant part of Davis’ recent story. He played 51 games during the 2024-25 season and appeared in only 20 games last season, giving him 71 appearances across the two campaigns. Before that, he played 76 games for the Los Angeles Lakers in 2023-24, averaging 24.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.2 steals and 2.3 blocks while earning All-NBA and All-Defensive honors.
Youngmisuk reported that Davis appeared to be in good shape and happy while working out with the Wizards in Las Vegas during the summer. His health and availability during the season could therefore play a major role in Washington’s decision-making regarding his long-term future.
The Wizards are entering the season with a significantly different roster after finishing 17-65 in 2025-26. Washington used the No. 1 overall pick on AJ Dybantsa and committed four years and $212.8 million to Trae Young.
The team also added Deandre Ayton and Khris Middleton while continuing to develop a young group that includes Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington, Kyshawn George, Tre Johnson and Bilal Coulibaly.
Davis remains the most accomplished player on the roster. Over 14 NBA seasons, he has averaged 24.0 points, 10.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.3 steals and 2.3 blocks in 807 games, earning eight All-Star selections and five All-NBA selections.
