Anthony Davis Joins Wizards in Major 8-Player Trade Deal

In a significant NBA trade, the Washington Wizards have acquired veteran big man Anthony Davis from the Dallas Mavericks, along with three other players. This eight-player deal also includes Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell, and Dante Exum heading to Washington. Conversely, the Mavericks receive Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, and Marvin Bagley III, along with two future first-round picks and three second-round picks.

Trade Details

• Wizards Receive:
  • Anthony Davis
  • Jaden Hardy
  • D’Angelo Russell
  • Dante Exum
• Mavericks Receive:
  • Khris Middleton
  • AJ Johnson
  • Malaki Branham
  • Marvin Bagley III
  • Two future first-round picks
  • Three future second-round picks

Anthony Davis’s Season Performance

This season, Davis is averaging 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists over 20 games. However, he has been sidelined since mid-January due to a torn ligament in his left hand. Fortunately, surgery will not be necessary, and he remains on track to return within the initial four-to-six week recovery timeline.

Wizards’ New Core

The Wizards have recently strengthened their roster after acquiring All-Star guard Trae Young last month. Young is currently dealing with a sprained right knee and bruised quadriceps, which will keep him out through the All-Star break. Once fully healthy, Davis and Young are set to lead a promising team that also includes young talents like Alex Sarr, Kyshawn George, Bub Carrington, Bilal Coubialy, and standout rookie Tre Johnson.

Mavericks’ Future Plans

Meanwhile, the Mavericks are focusing on building around rookie sensation Cooper Flagg through this trade. The team has also cleared more frontcourt minutes for him. The players acquired in the trade will be entering free agency this summer. D’Angelo Russell holds a player option for next season, while Hardy is under contract until the end of the 2026-27 season, with a team option for 2027-28. Exum, however, will be a free agent this offseason.

Kyrie Irving’s Recovery

The Mavericks are also looking ahead to Kyrie Irving’s return, who tore his left ACL in early March last year. His expected return was set for sometime after the start of the new year.

This trade marks a pivotal moment for both franchises as they navigate their respective journeys in the NBA.