The Dallas Mavericks find themselves at a pivotal crossroads just weeks after executing one of the most talked-about trades in recent NBA history.
Anthony Davis, the centerpiece of the return in the blockbuster Luka Doncic trade, may have already played his last game in a Mavericks uniform.
After making just a single appearance for Dallas, his situation has deteriorated alongside the team’s fortunes.
With Kyrie Irving now sidelined by an ACL tear, one ESPN insider suggested Davis might sit out the remainder of the 2024-25 season.
“I’m going to be honest. I don’t think that Anthony Davis should ever play for the Mavericks again. Shouldn’t play the rest of the season, and they should trade him this summer,” Tim Bontemps said, via NBACentral.
“I'm going to be honest, I don't think Anthony Davis should ever play for the Mavericks again. He shouldn't play the rest of the season, and they should trade him this summer.” 👀👀👀
– Tim Bontemps
(Via Hoop Collective / h/t @ClutchPoints )
pic.twitter.com/tlhTr57Lzn
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 5, 2025
The Mavericks face questions about their immediate future and long-term direction, leaving fans and analysts speculating about what comes next.
Bontemps’ rationale stems from a broader assessment of Dallas’ competitive timeline.
The championship window previously described as spanning three to four years appears to be closing faster than anticipated.
Irving’s injury not only impacts this season but raises questions about his reliability moving forward, potentially undermining the team’s plans.
Davis, meanwhile, represents a valuable but diminishing asset.
Entering the final year of his contract and approaching his 32nd birthday this month, his trade value likely won’t increase from this point.
If the Mavericks’ current roster can’t realistically compete at the highest level, Bontemps argues that they would be better served by trading Davis while his market remains strong.
NEXT: Analyst Questions Why Anthony Davis Would Want To Stay in Dallas