Dallas, Texas, February 8, 2026
In a significant move, the Dallas Mavericks have traded Anthony Davis, Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell, and Dante Exum to the Washington Wizards for Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley III, and several draft picks. This trade marks a pivotal point in the Mavericks’ rebuilding phase, aiming to integrate new talent while coping with the absence of Luka Dončić. Fans have mixed reactions as the team embarks on a new direction following key player departures.
Dallas Mavericks Trade Anthony Davis to Washington Wizards in Major Eight-Player Deal
Dallas, Texas – In a significant move just before the NBA trade deadline, the Dallas Mavericks have traded Anthony Davis, along with Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell, and Dante Exum, to the Washington Wizards. In return, the Mavericks receive Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley III, two first-round picks, and three second-round picks in the upcoming NBA Draft.
This trade marks the end of Davis’s brief tenure with the Mavericks, which began in February 2025 when he was acquired from the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Luka Dončić, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris. During his time in Dallas, Davis faced injury challenges, playing only 20 of the 50 games this season and averaging 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. He has been sidelined since January 9 due to a left hand ligament injury.
The decision to trade Davis comes amid the Mavericks’ ongoing rebuilding phase. The team is focusing on integrating new talent, including first-round draft pick Cooper Flagg, and adjusting to the absence of former star Luka Dončić, who was traded to the Lakers in February 2025. The Mavericks are also managing the recovery of Kyrie Irving, who is expected to return from ACL surgery later this season.
Fans have expressed mixed reactions to the trade. While some support the team’s direction, others are concerned about the loss of a ten-time All-Star like Davis. The Mavericks’ front office has emphasized the importance of long-term growth and flexibility in their roster decisions.
The trade is expected to have a significant impact on both teams. The Wizards, currently with a 13-36 record, are looking to rebuild and view Davis as a cornerstone for their future. The Mavericks aim to strengthen their roster with the incoming players and draft assets, focusing on building a competitive team in the coming seasons.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Mavericks continue to evaluate their roster and make strategic decisions to position themselves for future success.
Key Features of the Trade
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Players Traded | Anthony Davis, Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell, Dante Exum |
| Players Acquired | Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley III |
| Draft Picks | Two first-round picks, three second-round picks in the upcoming NBA Draft |
| Reason for Trade | Part of Mavericks’ rebuilding phase, focusing on integrating new talent and adjusting to the absence of Luka Dončić |
| Impact on Teams | Wizards aim to rebuild with Davis as a cornerstone; Mavericks focus on building a competitive team with incoming players and draft assets |
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
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