Anthony Davis of the Washington Wizards
Getty
Anthony Davis of the Washington Wizards looks on during a timeout in the second quarter of the game against the Detroit Pistons at Capital One Arena on March 19, 2026 in Washington, DC.
The Washington Wizards provided a new medical update on Anthony Davis ahead of Friday’s game against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder.
On Thursday, the team offered a cautiously optimistic outlook as the veteran big man continues his recovery from a left-hand injury.
According to the Wizards’ medical update, Davis recently underwent a reevaluation in Los Angeles, where doctors confirmed that his recovery is “progressing positively.” However, the Wizards noted that the volar plate ligament in his left hand has not yet fully healed, keeping a firm timeline for his return uncertain.
The team added that Davis will continue with conservative treatment while gradually increasing his basketball activity “as tolerated.” Another evaluation is scheduled for the end of March, which could provide greater clarity on his availability for the remainder of the season.
Trade Deadline Acquisition Yet to Debut for Washington
Davis has yet to appear in a game for the Wizards since being acquired at the February trade deadline, and questions remain about whether he will make his team debut before the season concludes.
Initial reports following the trade suggested that the 32-year-old’s season could be over due to the injury. However, Washington general manager Will Dawkins previously expressed optimism that Davis could return before the team’s regular-season finale on April 12.
That possibility remains open, though the latest update suggests the team is prioritizing a careful, long-term approach rather than rushing Davis back prematurely.
Wizards Balancing Development and Draft Position
Washington enters the final stretch of the season with a 16-53 record, the second-worst mark in the league and 14th in the Eastern Conference. With no postseason aspirations, the organization has little incentive to accelerate Davis’ return.
Maintaining their top-eight protected first-round pick is a key priority, as falling out of that range would send the selection to the New York Knicks. At the same time, the Wizards are positioned to improve their odds in the draft lottery, where a top-four pick could significantly impact their rebuilding timeline.
Still, the team has shown interest in integrating its veteran additions with the young core. Washington recently welcomed back Trae Young from his own injury absence, signaling a desire to build chemistry heading into next season.
Potential Return Could Offer Glimpse of Future Core
Davis himself has expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to play alongside Young, highlighting the potential of the pairing.
“I think me and Trae can definitely be a dynamic duo,” Davis said during his first media session with Wizards reporters. “His passing ability, his ability to shoot the basketball, ability to get to the paint. I feel like anytime I’ve had a point guard that can throw lobs and make the right read and score and read the game like Trae, I’ve been great.”
Even a limited return late in the season could provide a preview of that partnership, though it will ultimately depend on how Davis responds to continued treatment and ramp-up activity.
Medical Team Provides Added Confidence in Recovery
The Wizards’ cautious approach is supported by a highly regarded medical team. Davis has been evaluated by Dr. Steven Shin, one of the world’s leading specialists in hand and wrist injuries.
Shin has previously treated elite athletes across multiple sports, including Stephen Curry, Kobe Bryant and Drew Brees, adding confidence in the recovery process.
Limited Season Production Highlights Importance of Health
Before the injury, Davis appeared in 20 games this season — all with Dallas — and remained highly productive. He averaged 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.7 blocks in 31.3 minutes per game.
Those numbers underscore the impact Washington hopes he can provide once fully healthy.
Uncertainty Remains, but Outlook Trending Positive
While no definitive timeline has been established, Thursday’s update suggests Davis is moving in the right direction.
Whether he returns for a handful of games late in the season or continues his recovery into the offseason, the Wizards appear focused on ensuring that when Davis does take the floor, he is fully healthy and ready to contribute.
For now, the emphasis remains on patience and on protecting a key piece of Washington’s long-term plans.