One day after sustaining ligament damage in his left hand during Thursday's loss to the Utah Jazz, Anthony Davis faces surgery that could sideline him for the season. The 10-time All-Star's trade likelihood has fallen to 2/10 ahead of the February 5 deadline, prompting Dallas to prioritize rookie Cooper Flagg amid draft pick constraints.
Following initial reports of the injury—which occurred while defending Lauri Markkanen—the Mavericks confirmed ligament damage requiring surgery, potentially ending Davis's season and eliminating near-term trade options.
Pre-injury, Davis was a top target, with every Eastern Conference contender viewing him as a Finals piece. The New York Knicks eyed a deal for the $126.6 million star to shore up their frontcourt. Now, with Dallas owing its next four first-round picks and sitting at 14-24 (3-8 vs. sub-.500 Western Conference teams), the focus shifts to tanking and developing teenage prodigy Cooper Flagg. Davis, managed by Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, has indicated he'd stay if extended, but the team preserves assets for a possible Kyrie Irving return next season.
Davis impressed upon recent return, logging 76 minutes over two games including 26 points, 12 rebounds, and five blocks in a win over Houston. A tough three-game road trip looms.
The broader trade market heats up, with the Hawks' Trae Young deal to the Wizards (for Corey Kispert and CJ McCollum) setting the tone. Memphis eyes offers for Ja Morant (9/10 trade odds amid 16-22 record), while Brooklyn's Michael Porter Jr. (25.9 PPG on 49% shooting) is expected to move.