Hawks Consider Trade for Anthony Davis

The Atlanta Hawks are reportedly intrigued by the possibility of trading for Anthony Davis from the Dallas Mavericks, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes. However, any potential deal would not involve star point guard Trae Young, keeping the young talent secure in Atlanta for the time being.

Haynes revealed that the Mavericks would likely seek a trade package centered around young assets, draft picks, and expiring contracts as they explore options for Davis, a 10-time All-Star who recently left the Mavericks' Christmas Day game against the Golden State Warriors with a groin injury. Fortunately for Mavericks fans, this injury is expected to sideline him for just a few games.

While the Hawks have shown interest in acquiring Davis, skepticism remains among rival teams regarding whether they would be willing to sacrifice significant assets, particularly with Kristaps Porziņģis’ expiring contract in play. Currently, both Porziņģis and Young have faced injury challenges this season, contributing to Atlanta's disappointing 15-17 start.

Since returning to the lineup on December 18, Trae Young has been making an impact, averaging 29.0 points on 52.1 percent shooting along with 10.0 assists in his last three games. However, concerns linger around his defensive limitations, which could affect his market value should the Hawks ever consider trading him. Earlier reports indicated that the Hawks were not looking to entertain any offers for Young as they seek to see how he performs upon his return.

Atlanta's management faces a tightly packed six weeks before the February 5 trade deadline, giving them time to assess their current roster. Additionally, Young’s future with the franchise remains uncertain, as he did not receive an extension in the offseason and could potentially enter free agency next summer if he declines a $49 million player option. Meanwhile, if the Hawks were to trade for Davis, they would bolster their frontcourt at a time when the team is navigating player health issues.