Anthony Davis dismissed trade speculation Wednesday, saying his focus remains on basketball despite uncertainty surrounding his future following the firing of general manager Nico Harrison. Davis said he has no control over front office decisions but maintains open communication with management.
Davis participated in a full practice Wednesday for the first time since suffering a calf strain October 29. He will be listed as questionable for Friday’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers, his former team.
With Harrison’s departure and Dallas sitting at 5-14, speculation has emerged about Davis’ future ahead of the February 5 trade deadline. The franchise must decide whether to keep the roster intact or prioritize building around rookie Cooper Flagg.
“Man, look. Y’all make it like we’re going to war or something. This is basketball. It comes with it,” Davis said. “I think everybody in their career has been involved in trade talks, or been traded or some type of move. That doesn’t affect me.”
Davis emphasized his job is to perform on the court and lead the team when healthy.
“My job is to do what I do when I’m on the floor, play basketball and try to lead this team,” Davis said. “Whatever comes out of that, comes out of that. I don’t really have any control over that, but I do have an open line of communication with the front office and I’m just ready to get back on the floor.”
Harrison was relieved of his duties on November 11th amid the team’s worst start since the 2017-18 season. Harrison had acquired Davis in a stunning trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers last season.
“It was surprising more than anything,” Davis said. “Nico’s my guy. Obviously, he played a huge part of getting me here and wanting me to fulfill his vision.”
The Mavericks have gone 3-11 without Davis over four weeks and sit at the bottom of the Western Conference. Davis was averaging 20.8 points and 10.2 rebounds before his injury.
Dallas ranks third in defense despite missing Davis and Dereck Lively II for most of the season but ranks 30th in offense. Jason Kidd cited Davis’ rebounding, scoring and leadership as critical needs for the struggling franchise.