Mavericks Explore Trade Possibilities for Anthony Davis
The Dallas Mavericks are entering a pivotal stretch as they consider shopping star forward Anthony Davis ahead of this season’s trade deadline. With December 15th on the horizon, marking the unofficial commencement of the NBA trade season, the Mavericks are keen to explore potential deals. This date is significant as it allows most players who signed contracts during the offseason to become trade eligible.
Davis’ Role in the Mavericks’ Future
Anthony Davis has become a focal point of trade discussions, primarily due to his injury-prone status and lack of fit within the current roster construction. The Mavericks are looking to capitalize on his market value before he potentially suffers another setback. The organization is motivated to find a suitable package that can not only benefit the team in the immediate future but also address long-term financial considerations.
Proposed Trade Package with the Spurs
ESPN has speculated on various trade scenarios involving Davis, one of which pairs him with rising star Victor Wembanyama in San Antonio. This hypothetical move would create a formidable defensive frontcourt duo that could reshape the Spurs’ lineup.
In the proposed deal, the Mavericks would receive:
Harrison Barnes
Keldon Johnson
Luke Kornet
2026 second-round pick (via the Jazz)
2028 and 2029 second-round picks (via the Bulls)
2030 first-round pick swap
Meanwhile, the Spurs would acquire Anthony Davis, while the Chicago Bulls would benefit by receiving Naji Marshall as part of the transaction.
Financial Implications and Strategic Benefits
This deal would yield significant financial advantages for the Mavericks. The Spurs, with their available cap space below the luxury tax threshold, would not need to match Davis’ salary fully. This flexibility allows Dallas to fortify its roster depth while also alleviating the financial burden of luxury taxes—potentially saving the team around $30 million.
ESPN’s Kevin Pelton elaborated on the strategic elements of the trade, noting, “A San Antonio deal would provide the Mavericks the most financial benefit… the net result is Dallas saving $30 million in luxury taxes with an easy path to avoiding the tax altogether.” Additionally, the Mavericks would be able to extinguish the 2030 swap rights associated with the previous Grant Williams sign-and-trade, further simplifying their salary cap situation.
The Spurs’ Perspective on Davis
For the Spurs, acquiring Davis would be a significant boost. He would seamlessly step into the role currently occupied by Kornet, offering a reliable presence in the center position during Wembanyama’s off-court moments. The potential for pick-and-roll schemes featuring Davis as a screener for Wembanyama creates intriguing matchups that could challenge opposing defenses. The prospect of integrating both Davis and Wembanyama into the lineup, alongside other talents like De’Aaron Fox or No. 2 pick Dylan Harper, presents a daunting challenge for any team.
As the Mavericks weigh their options, the trade landscape continues to evolve. The upcoming weeks will be critical in determining whether this rumored deal materializes, and how both franchises may look different by the end of the season.
