Warriors Eye Anthony Davis Amid Injury Concerns
The Golden State Warriors are reportedly setting their sights on a bold acquisition: Dallas Mavericks center Anthony Davis. According to Chris Haynes, the Warriors are actively “making a case to acquire” the All-Star big man. However, initial talks have hit a snag, as the Mavericks are not enamored with the proposed package from Golden State, suggesting that a third team might need to facilitate the deal.
The Case for Acquiring Davis
The rationale behind the Warriors’ interest in Davis is straightforward: significant roster changes are necessary for Golden State to reclaim its status as a title contender. The addition of Davis could provide the defensive prowess and finishing ability that the team has been craving. Despite his undeniable talent, the specter of injury looms large over this potential trade. Davis is currently sidelined with a groin injury sustained during a recent game, although it appears to be minor. Nevertheless, his injury history raises questions about his reliability moving forward.
Yet, it’s worth noting that Davis has proven his durability in recent playoff runs, not missing a game in the past two postseasons. During those stretches, he showcased his elite skills, averaging 22.5 points on an impressive 55.0 percent shooting, alongside 14.4 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 2.8 blocks, 1.1 steals, and just 2.1 turnovers per game. The Warriors might find that the potential rewards of acquiring Davis outweigh the risks.
What It Would Cost
Acquiring Davis will not come cheap. The Warriors would need to part with key players, including Draymond Green and Jonathan Kuminga, to meet the financial requirements of the trade. With Davis commanding a salary that necessitates at least $54.1 million in outgoing contracts, the Warriors must navigate a complex trade scenario. The Mavericks’ disinterest in certain components of the Warriors’ offer complicates matters, particularly regarding Green, who may not fit into Dallas’ vision.
In a hypothetical four-team trade suggested by ESPN’s Kevin Pelton, the Warriors would also send a 2026 first-round pick to the Mavericks. While this seems reasonable, the combination of Davis’ injury history and Dallas’ desire for a fresh start could make them amenable to accepting less-valued draft capital.
The very fact that the Warriors are contemplating such a move indicates their growing uncertainty about their current roster configuration. Green has been a linchpin of the Warriors’ dynasty, but at 35 years old, he is experiencing an age-related decline that raises questions about his future contributions.
Challenges of Finding a Third Team
Identifying a potential third team to facilitate this trade is fraught with challenges. Most contenders may not have a pressing need for Green, especially given the depth of frontcourt talent among the top teams in the Western Conference. The Los Angeles Lakers stand out as the most plausible landing spot, but they would need to offer something enticing to Dallas. Given the Mavs’ likely lack of interest in players like Rui Hachimura and other salary fillers, the road to a three-team trade becomes increasingly complex.
With Green’s substantial contract of $25.9 million this season, coupled with a player option for $27.7 million next year, the financial implications of this trade cannot be overlooked. Considering Green’s current struggles on offense, it is reasonable to anticipate that he will remain with the Warriors as they approach the February 5 trade deadline.
As discussions unfold, the Warriors’ pursuit of Anthony Davis embodies the delicate balance teams must strike between ambition and caution, especially when navigating the treacherous waters of injury-prone superstars.
