Building on early NBA trade buzz, the Atlanta Hawks have emerged as the frontrunners to acquire Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis before the February 5 deadline, per recent reports. A deal would exclude Trae Young, though sources say Atlanta is more open than ever to moving their star guard amid salary cap pressures and a 15-18 start.
Marc Stein reports the Hawks "do appear to be the most determined suitor for Davis at this juncture." The 32-year-old big man has averaged over 23 points and nearly 13 rebounds in nine December games, aiding Dallas's Western Conference Play-In push.
Trade discussions could center on expiring contracts like Kristaps Porziņģis's, plus young pieces such as No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher—who's averaged 10.7 points on 33.3% three-point shooting and underperformed expectations. Atlanta holds draft assets including 2027 picks/swaps from Cleveland, New Orleans, and Milwaukee, despite owing San Antonio its next first-rounder.
Challenges include Davis's $58.5 million salary next year and extension demands, plus Young's $49 million option, which—combined with Jalen Johnson, Dyson Daniels, Onyeka Okongwu, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker—nears the $202 million luxury tax. The Hawks, tax-avoidant since 2011, face apron limits in contention-building.
Chris Haynes confirms Young stays out of any Davis package, but league belief grows that Atlanta seeks an exit, per Stein. ESPN's Tim MacMahon notes the Hawks "are indicating that they're looking for the exit ramp with Trae Young." Young's season—plagued by a sprained MCL absence and career-worst shooting—has Atlanta at 2-8 in his games, spurring speculation.
Young could draw interest from play-in teams like the Clippers or Kings, despite a soft market for guards like him, Ja Morant, and LaMelo Ball. The Hawks weigh Davis's defense against Young's scoring in a potential size-and-defense pivot.