Mavericks Initiated Anthony Davis Trade Talks With Warriors

As the NBA trade deadline on February 5, 2026, approaches, the Dallas Mavericks are aggressively exploring the market for star big man Anthony Davis. In a surprising development reported on December 31, 2025, by Sam Amick of The Athletic, it was the Mavericks—not the Golden State Warriors—who initiated exploratory trade discussions centered around Davis. Dallas has expressed particular interest in young forward Jonathan Kuminga, but significant hurdles, including salary matching and Golden State’s reluctance to part with core pieces, make a deal appear unlikely at this stage.

The Report: Mavericks Reach Out First

The revelation flips the narrative that had been building in recent weeks. Earlier reports, including from Chris Haynes, suggested the Warriors were “contemplating” a pursuit of Davis to bolster their frontcourt alongside Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler. However, Amick clarified, citing team sources: “What’s more, it should be noted that the Mavericks called Golden State about the Davis possibility — and not the other way around.”

This detail is crucial. It signals that Dallas’ interim front office—led by co-GMs Michael Finley and Matt Riccardi—is proactively shopping Davis rather than passively fielding offers. The Mavericks’ motivation stems from a combination of factors: Davis’ recurring injuries (he’s missed significant time this season with calf and groin issues), his massive contract ($54.1 million this year, with a $62.7 million player option for 2027-28), and the team’s desire to accelerate a youth movement around No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving.

Golden State, sitting at 18-16 and eighth in the West as of early January 2026, has internal discussions about Davis but remains cautious due to his injury history and the high cost required to acquire him.

Why Dallas Is Shopping Davis

Anthony Davis arrived in Dallas via the blockbuster February 2025 trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Lakers. Initially viewed as a defensive anchor to pair with Dončić’s offense, the deal’s dynamics shifted dramatically after the Mavericks moved on from former GM Nico Harrison and pivoted toward rebuilding with Flagg.

In limited action this season (around 16-20 games), Davis has posted solid numbers—approximately 20.5 points, 10.9 rebounds, 1.6 blocks, and 1.3 steals on efficient shooting—but availability remains a concern. Since joining Dallas, he’s played in fewer than half the games due to various ailments.

The Mavericks control only their 2026 first-round pick outright until 2031, limiting future flexibility. Trading Davis could yield young talent, draft capital, or expiring contracts to reset the timeline around Flagg, a rookie sensation already emerging as the franchise cornerstone.

League sources indicate Dallas is open to deals involving Davis, Daniel Gafford, Klay Thompson, and others. Preferred returns include athletic wings or forwards to complement Flagg’s development.

Golden State’s Stance: Interest, But Major Roadblocks

The Warriors have long admired Davis as a two-way force who could thrive in their motion offense and provide rim protection. Pairing him with Curry and Butler could create a formidable trio, potentially elevating Golden State back into true contention.

However, team sources emphasize a staunch unwillingness to include Draymond Green ($25.8 million) or Jimmy Butler ($54.1 million) in any package. Coach Steve Kerr has publicly stated his desire for Green to finish his career in Golden State.

Salary matching poses the biggest issue. Kuminga, whom Dallas covets for his upside (he’s expected to be traded before the deadline), earns $22.5 million but can’t be moved until January 15, 2026. His salary falls far short of Davis’, necessitating additional large contracts—like Green’s—to bridge the gap.

A straight Butler-for-Davis swap works financially (both at ~$54 million), but Golden State has shown zero interest. Without moving Green or Butler, the Warriors lack a viable path.

Amick notes: “While team sources say the Warriors have not completely closed the door on the prospect of doing a Davis deal, it appears unlikely.”

Potential Trade Frameworks and Why They Stall

Hypothetical deals have circulated:

• Kuminga-Centric: Dallas receives Kuminga + fillers/picks; Warriors get Davis. But salaries don’t match without Green or other pieces Golden State won’t move.
• Butler Swap: Clean financially, but Warriors decline.
• Multi-Team Scenarios: Involving third (or more) teams to reroute assets. Earlier proposals included Sacramento (Malik Monk) or others, with Dallas landing Green, picks, and youth while Golden State acquires Davis.

Fan-proposed mega-deals (e.g., five-team blockbusters with Hawks, Kings, Nets) add complexity but remain speculative.

The core problem: Dallas wants Kuminga-level youth; Golden State wants Davis but not at the cost of its veteran core.

Broader Trade Market for Davis

While the Warriors talks highlight Dallas’ proactivity, other suitors loom larger:

• Atlanta Hawks: Frequently linked, potentially offering Trae Young or assets.
• Detroit Pistons: Interest reported; could provide young pieces.
• Toronto Raptors: Mentioned as explorers.
• Others like San Antonio (for Victor Wembanyama synergy) or even multi-team constructs.

ESPN’s Tim MacMahon notes Davis will likely have input on his destination, given his leverage for a future extension.

Implications for Both Teams

For Dallas: Moving Davis signals a full pivot to youth. Success hinges on returns—ideally high-upside players and picks—to pair with Flagg and sustain competitiveness around Irving.

For Golden State: Rejecting Davis preserves the Curry-Butler-Green core but risks another play-in or early-exit season. Kuminga remains a trade chip elsewhere.

As January 2026 progresses, momentum could shift. Davis’ health upon return, team performances, and evolving needs will dictate if these initiated talks evolve into something more—or fizzle out entirely.

The deadline is just over a month away, and with Dallas calling first, the Anthony Davis saga is far from over.