The Dallas Mavericks have faced challenges since trading Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. Anthony Davis, the marquee player acquired in exchange for Doncic, managed to play just one game before suffering an injury. Since then, the team has been anxiously awaiting his return. Head coach Jason Kidd recently clarified the situation surrounding Davis’ recovery.
Davis has been assigned to the Mavericks’ G League affiliate to continue his rehabilitation, fueling hope for a return this season. However, according to ESPN’s Tim McMahon, some within the Mavericks organization have suggested Davis might be better off sitting out the rest of the year.
In a recent statement, Kidd praised Davis’ progress but emphasized that he is not yet ready to return to the court. Kidd refrained from addressing reports suggesting the franchise prefers to hold Davis out for the remainder of the season.
“He’s trending in the right place. He had a positive experience in the practice. He’ll continue to do things this week. Hopefully, the outcome continues to be positive. A lot of good things, but he’s still some time away for him being in a game,” Kidd told Mike Curtis of The Dallas Morning News.
Anthony Davis #3 of the Dallas Mavericks reacts after an injury in the game against the Houston Rockets at American Airlines Center on February 08, 2025. (Tim Heitman/Getty Images)
Injury woes continue to haunt the Mavericks
The Mavericks’ season has been marred by a string of injuries, leaving the team in a precarious position. Before the blockbuster trade, Luka Doncic missed over a month due to a calf injury, creating a significant void in the lineup.
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Post-trade, the injury woes only worsened. Key contributors like Derek Lively II and Daniel Gafford also joined the injured list. Adding to the team’s struggles, Kyrie Irving tore the ACL in his left knee, ruling him out for an extended period.
In the midst of these setbacks, Anthony Davis, touted as the franchise’s future centerpiece, has played just one game. The injury bug also claimed Dante Exum, who is sidelined indefinitely after fracturing his left hand in a 133-96 loss to the Houston Rockets.
