The Dallas Mavericks are not even a year removed from trading their franchise superstar, and the primary asset they received in return is having a difficult time getting acclimated. Anthony Davis has been up and down with the Mavericks, especially after suffering yet another injury on Christmas Day.
“Mavericks star Anthony Davis has sustained a minor groin strain and is likely to miss a few games, sources tell ESPN. Davis, a significant trade target, will be evaluated daily. Mavs have taken a cautious approach with injuries, specifically for Davis, and will continue to do so,” ESPN’s Shams Charania posted.
Davis is a proven star, but durability has always been the biggest concern surrounding him. With the Mavericks struggling, several teams believe acquiring the 10-time All-Star could benefit them more than Dallas.
“The Pistons (19-5), Raptors (15-10) and Hawks (14-11) represent high-level threats in the East and are having seasons that give hope that a player like Davis -- a 10-time All-Star who has spent his entire career in the Western Conference -- can elevate them into a viable championship-quality team,” Charania wrote.
The Hawks, in particular, are an intriguing team to watch as this situation unfolds, as they appear to be one of the strongest potential suitors. Trae Young has long lacked a dominant big man, aside from Clint Capela during parts of his tenure. Bleacher Report’s Adam Wells can envision Atlanta pursuing a deal.
“Since there's no definite timeline for Porziņģis to return to action after being diagnosed with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, it's unclear when the Hawks might have their full complement of players available. That scenario does open the door for the Hawks to make a trade for Davis to fill the void in the frontcourt,” Wells wrote.
If the Hawks were able to land Davis, the Eastern Conference could be flipped upside down—assuming he stays healthy. Of course, much would depend on what Atlanta would need to give up in a potential deal.
Atlanta is in a position where it must continue convincing Young that the franchise is committed to winning. Bringing in a defensive force like Davis could be exactly the move needed. Young has consistently expressed his desire to remain in Atlanta, and now it’s up to the Hawks to give him every reason to stay.