Barely a year after they acquired Anthony Davis from the Los Angeles Lakers, the Dallas Mavericks traded him to the Washington Wizards in a surprise move. There was ample chatter about Davis’ trade, with many questioning the Mavericks’ haphazard decisions as they attempt to rebuild.
The Wizards, however, despite Davis’ ongoing injuries, seem to have a plan in place before the 2026-27 season begins. Especially while Davis continues to possess much-needed postseason experience.
Anthony Davis Injury Update: When Will the Washington Wizards Play Him Next?
Before the NBA Trade Deadline on Feb. 5, the Mavericks traded Davis to the Wizards in an eight-player blockbuster trade. Dallas sent Davis, Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell, and Dante Exum to the Wizards while receiving Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley III, two first-round draft picks, and three second-rounders.
However, Davis’ journey in Washington is yet to begin.
According to a recent report, Wizards won’t be starting Davis until the next season begins.
“BREAKING: Washington Wizards star Anthony Davis (hand, groin) expected to sit out the remainder of the season to fully get healthy for the 2026-27 season, league sources tell me,” Chris Haynes wrote on Twitter (now X).
Furthermore, Davis hasn’t played since January because of a finger injury.
Of course, this seems in line with their plan for Trae Young, whom they acquired in a previous trade with the Atlanta Hawks. Considering their poor record and 13th spot in the Eastern Conference, the Wizards are most likely resting their star players ahead of the NBA Draft.
As of now, the best plan of action for the Wizards will be to tank the season, hopefully landing a good lottery pick before the next season.
Mavericks HC Jason Kidd Reacts to Davis’ Trade
Following the trade, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd spoke about his view on Davis’ ultimate departure.
“It was unfortunate,” Kidd explained. “His health. We never got to see everyone together, so not just AD, but Kai, and with Coop, so unfortunately, we didn’t have that opportunity. AD is an incredible basketball player and a great human being.”
Davis’ stats are a testament to his limited time in Dallas. He played only 20 games for the team, which isn’t enough for him to form chemistry with younger players like Cooper Flagg. Of course, Davis’ adductor strain and hand injury haven’t helped his case.
Overall, Davis played 29 games with the Mavericks over two seasons. With the Wizards, Davis might have time to completely recover before starting another season. Davis averaged 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game this season, while shooting 50.6% from the field and 27% from the three-point line.
