Why an Anthony Davis trade to the Atlanta Hawks is gaining momentum

Jeremy Beren

Why an Anthony Davis trade to the Atlanta Hawks is gaining momentum image

Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Hawks are positioning themselves to make major moves in advance of the NBA's trade deadline on Feb. 5.

The Hawks are preparing to move on from All-Star point guard Trae Young and are canvassing interest in the former assists champ from around the league. A Young trade would signal the end of an era in Atlanta, with the Hawks preparing to build around a core led by 24-year-old forward Jalen Johnson.

MORE: Clippers linked to Trae Young in bid to replace franchise legend

But the Hawks will not be entering a teardown rebuild. Instead, Atlanta is a possible destination for 10-time All-Star forward Anthony Davis.

According to Sam Amick and Christian Clark at The Athletic, Davis and his camp -- led by super agent Rich Paul -- do not plan to negotiate a contract extension with the Dallas Mavericks. Expectation is growing that the Mavericks will find a trade partner before the deadline, one with whom Davis would feel comfortable signing a contract extension.

If the Hawks find a suitable deal for Young, Atlanta reportedly would turn attentions toward a Davis trade.

Even though the Mavericks don't want to take back Young's contract in a theoretical Davis trade, one formula that might work would involve the expiring contract of former Mavs big man Kristaps Porzingis -- who has endured an injury-plagued debut season with the Hawks.

Davis would fill a big hole in the middle for the 17-21 Hawks, who entered the season as a dark horse contender in the Eastern Conference but have struggled with injuries.

And if the five-time All-Defense selection wants to re-up in Atlanta, that's even better for the Hawks in the years to come.

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