NBA News: Mavericks star Anthony Davis loses key teammate for part of the regular season

The Dallas Mavericks‘ fanbase is collectively taking a deep breath after facing a series of struggles during the NBA regular season. Without a major star like Kyrie Irving, the return of Anthony Davis to the starting lineup has given the Mavs hope that they can still compete for a play-in spot. However, they’re facing yet another setback.

With just seven games remaining in the regular season, Dallas is relying on Davis’ return to help secure the necessary wins to make the playoffs. His performance in Saturday’s win over the Chicago Bulls showed that it’s possible, and fans are eager to see if they can keep the momentum going.

However, the Mavericks‘ injury woes have been a persistent issue. Despite having a leader like Klay Thompson, the team’s depth remains a concern. That’s why it came as a surprise when a key teammate of Davis and Thompson was ruled out for the remainder of the season.

The team’s decision to let Brandon Williams finish his two-way contract without offering him a standard NBA deal could complicate head coach Jason Kidd’s game plan. Williams played his final game under his current contract against the Bulls, and now he must wait to see if there’s a chance for him to return, as MFFL Nation wrote on their X account: “The Mavs could sign him to a standard NBA contract on April. 10th, but it has yet to be determined if they will.”

Klay Thompson #31 of the Dallas Mavericks reacts after scoring during the third quarter against the Golden State Warriors at American Airlines Center on February 12, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.

Why Davis’ key teammate departure could be decisive

The Mavericks’ decision to part ways with one of their key contributors for the remainder of the regular season raises significant questions. Williams has been a vital player, contributing points and assists in the team’s game plan during their last five outings. However, his absence will have a bigger impact than just the statistics.

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Anthony Davis opens up on his true motivation behind anticipated comeback from injury with the Mavs

With only seven games remaining in the regular season, the Mavericks will need as many wins as possible to secure at least a play-in spot. Williams is expected to miss at least five of those games, and while the team could offer him a standard contract, they have until April 10th to make that decision.

By the time that deadline arrives, the Mavericks will have just two games left: one against the Raptors and another against the Grizzlies. The rest of their schedule is equally challenging, with tough opponents like the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Atlanta Hawks on the horizon.

Davis’ thoughts on his experience with the Mavericks so far

As the Mavericks rely on Davis to help secure a play-in spot, the player shared his thoughts with the media after returning from an injury. His 4-0 record since joining the team has brought a renewed sense of hope for what lies ahead in the playoffs, should the Mavs make it.

“I’m great. I don’t feel it, but a lot of people have been coming to me and telling me they haven’t seen me smile like this in a long time,” Davis said after his return to the team following his trade from the Lakers.