Davis had been considered for trade in Dallas for much of the season, but concerns arose when he suffered ligament damage in his left hand. This injury could keep him out for most of February or longer. Teams like Atlanta and Toronto seemed to pull back, allowing a team like the Wizards to step in for a potential deal.
Davis has a history of injuries, including issues with his adductor, eye, calf, groin, and hand since moving to Dallas last February. In 20 games this season, he averaged 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.7 blocks in about 31 minutes per game.
The former No. 1 pick is under a maximum-salary contract that lasts through the 2027-28 season, with a $62.8 million player option for that last year.
The Wizards are motivated to lose games in the remaining season to keep their 2026 first-round pick, which is protected for the top eight, and improve their chances of securing a top prospect in the draft. Trae Young, acquired last month, has yet to play for the Wizards due to knee and quad injuries.
GM Will Dawkins mentioned in a late January interview that Young would be out through the All-Star break but emphasized there were no plans to shut him down for the rest of the season. However, this does not seem to apply to Davis.
In a phone interview with David Aldridge from The Athletic, Davis shared that he had a “great” meeting with the Wizards’ ownership and front office. Still, he voiced concerns about the team’s approach to becoming a contender.
“At this point in my career, I want to compete for a championship,” Davis said. “Whether that’s here or elsewhere, I have no idea. It’s been phenomenal, everything they’re saying. Everything they’re showing me is nothing short of phenomenal. Now it’s about having an actual conversation about the team.”
While Davis expressed his fondness for Washington D.C. and showed openness to the team’s future plans, he emphasized that winning games is his main focus.
“It’s hard to say (I would definitely stay in D.C.) without the proper plan,” Davis said. “Obviously, it’s tough right now with the team, as shown by their record, but adding certain pieces can change that. It’s year by year. They could be the No. 1 team in the East next year.”