The pursuit of a blockbuster deal worth $261 million has hit a major obstacle, revealing a darker reality that some might consider the worst trade in NBA history. But here's where it gets controversial: the high-stakes negotiations surrounding Anthony Davis are facing significant delays, and the future of this potential move remains uncertain.
As the February 6 deadline approaches, rumors swirl about a possible transfer involving Davis, with the Atlanta Hawks emerging as one of the front-runners to acquire the Dallas Mavericks’ star center. However, NBA insider Marc Stein has reported that, at present, there is little meaningful progress in talks between Atlanta and Dallas regarding this deal.
Stein also noted last week that Atlanta’s capacity to absorb Davis’s hefty salary — reportedly $175 million over the next three seasons — could depend heavily on whether they can find a trade partner for their own key player, Trae Young. Interestingly, the Hawks seem increasingly inclined to consider moving Young, who has had a turbulent season with a 2-8 record without him and a 15-12 record with him on the court.
Contradicting some reports, NBA insider Chris Haynes has suggested that Young might not be part of any deal for Davis. In a cryptic social media post, Young hinted at the growing speculation around his future, writing, “Consider the source before you consider the statement,” perhaps indicating his awareness of the ongoing trade buzz.
Young, a four-time All-Star, also holds a $48 million player option for the next season, giving him the choice to opt out and become a free agent this offseason. If he does so and Atlanta manages to land Davis, the Hawks, currently sitting at a 17-20 record and fighting for a playoff spot in the East, would suddenly field one of the most expensive lineups in the league.
In addition, Stein reports that Atlanta might be open to trading promising rookie Zaccharie Risacher under certain circumstances. Nonetheless, including past number-one pick Jalen Johnson or the rights to a crucial 2026 unprotected first-round pick from New Orleans isn’t on their current agenda.
Davis, now 32, has the chance to sign a lucrative four-year extension worth up to $275 million next August. This deal would pay him as much as $76 million when he's 37. Without securing this extension, and due to his frequent injury struggles, Davis could decline his last-year player option of $62 million and hit free agency after the 2026/27 season.
Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks, sitting at a 13-23 record and outside the play-in tournament in the Western Conference, are reportedly willing to listen to trade offers for nearly everyone on their roster, excluding only Kyrie Irving and Cooper Flagg, ahead of the deadline.
Adding complexity, Davis’s agent Rich Paul is believed to consider Atlanta a promising destination if negotiations advance seriously. Conversations are ongoing with key figures within Dallas, including interim co-GMs Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi, as well as coach Jason Kidd and owner Patrick Dumont. Notably, Paul also manages Jalen Johnson.
This trade saga is unfolding less than a year after Dallas acquired Davis, making him the centerpiece of the blockbuster Luka Doncic deal. Yet, with Davis having played just 18 games this season amid health concerns, the Mavericks' return on their investment looks increasingly uncertain. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon suggests Dallas is hesitant to move Davis now, fearing it would further tarnish their reputation after trading Luka Doncic.
MacMahon emphasizes the challenge: “There’s this black cloud over what Dallas initially gave up for Anthony Davis. They’re reluctant to make a trade that makes the franchise’s move look like a mistake—especially given Davis’s injury history, salary, and the extension he’s expected to pursue.” He further explained that the value of Davis’s trade stock is heavily diminished by his recurring injuries and hefty wages, making it unlikely Dallas will secure a compelling package before the deadline.
And so, the question remains: is this trade destined to fall apart, or could the ongoing negotiations yet produce a surprising outcome? What are your thoughts—do you agree that the Davis deal may ultimately unravel? Or do you believe there’s still a chance for these high-profile trade talks to come together before February 6? Share your opinions below!
