Dallas Mavericks explore trade options for Anthony Davis
The Dallas Mavericks are reportedly looking to trade star forward/center Anthony Davis ahead of the approaching February trade deadline. This move seems prudent, particularly given Davis’s ongoing injury struggles and hefty contract obligations. As he approaches his 34th birthday, Davis is set to earn nearly $63 million during the upcoming season, a substantial sum for a player who has participated in less than half of the games since joining the Mavericks.
Hawks emerge as frontrunners for Davis
In recent days, the Atlanta Hawks have emerged as the most likely candidate to acquire Davis. However, the Mavericks are not limiting their outreach to just one team; they are actively engaging with various franchises across the league. Among those teams is the Golden State Warriors, with whom the Mavericks are reportedly interested in discussing a potential trade involving Jonathan Kuminga.
Kuminga’s situation complicates potential trade
While league sources confirm the Mavericks’ interest in Kuminga, there are significant obstacles to overcome. Kuminga, who cannot be traded until January 15, has a salary of $22.5 million, which falls far short of Davis’s $54.1 million. This discrepancy means that any deal involving Kuminga would necessitate the inclusion of another substantial contract, most likely Draymond Green’s $25.8 million.
Despite this potential framework, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr and team sources have indicated that such a move is not on their agenda. Kerr publicly stated last week that the Warriors are not pursuing a trade for Davis, a sentiment echoed by insiders close to the team.
Financial feasibility of other trade scenarios
Interestingly, a trade scenario involving a swap of Jimmy Butler for Davis appears financially feasible, as both players share a similar salary figure of $54.1 million this season. Nonetheless, the Warriors have shown no inclination to explore this avenue either. Notably, it is worth mentioning that the Mavericks initiated contact with Golden State regarding the possibility of trading for Davis, rather than the other way around.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Mavericks’ pursuit of Davis and their interest in Kuminga reflects a broader strategy to reshape their roster for future success. Whether these discussions lead to a significant deal remains to be seen, but the landscape is undeniably shifting in Dallas.
