The Dallas Mavericks stunned the basketball world earlier this month by trading Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis. Nico Harrison’s decision to move Doncic was unexpected, as there had been no prior rumors suggesting Dallas was considering such a move.
Harrison kept discussions with Rob Pelinka about Doncic under wraps, wanting to avoid any leaks about the trade. His reasoning for moving Doncic stemmed from concerns over his conditioning, injury history, and off-court habits. Harrison believed Doncic’s body might not hold up long-term, and while Doncic is now playing for the Lakers, Davis is sidelined for the Mavericks.
Davis suffered an adductor strain in his first game with Dallas. Despite assuring fans that the injury wasn’t serious and that he hadn’t experienced any significant setbacks, he has remained out ever since. The Mavericks have not provided any updates on his status, leaving fans to come to a realization that Lakers fans are all too familiar with.
Anthony Davis’ injuries are unpredictable and prolonged
Although he has been relatively healthy in recent seasons, Lakers fans know that Davis is prone to missing time—and when he does, his absences often last longer than expected.
After his first game with Dallas, Davis downplayed the injury, leading fans to believe he would return quickly. His debut was dominant, and his confidence reassured Mavericks fans that they had landed a game-changer. His first-half performance was nearly flawless, making it seem like he could help lead the team to championship contention this season.
However, concerns are now growing, and panic is beginning to set in. Davis may require surgery, which would effectively end his season. If that happens, the Mavericks will have lost a year of championship potential with Doncic no longer leading the team.
No one could have predicted that Davis would get injured in his first game with the Mavericks, and now fans are anxiously awaiting his return. His availability could determine Dallas’ NBA Finals chances, putting the team in a difficult position.
Since joining the Mavericks, Davis has already missed three games due to this injury. Dallas fans are now experiencing what Lakers fans learned early in Davis’ tenure—his injuries can be unpredictable, and his time on the sidelines is often prolonged.
This was the worst possible start to Davis’ Mavericks career for both him and the team. However, his debut proved that he remains one of the NBA’s elite two-way players, capable of dominating when healthy. If he returns this season, Dallas will be back in the title conversation. If not, the next two months could feel painfully long for Mavericks fans.
