Mavericks Proved Right in Trading Anthony Davis, NBA's Most Overrated

Dallas offloaded the injury-prone and underperforming star before his value dropped further.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The Dallas Mavericks traded Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards earlier this month, a decision that appears increasingly justified as Davis is now ranked among the NBA's most overrated players. Injuries have limited Davis to just 29 games with the Mavericks, and even when on the court, his performance has failed to meet expectations, averaging only 20.4 points per game - his lowest scoring output since his rookie season. The Mavericks were able to receive five draft picks, expiring contracts, and a player in exchange for Davis, signaling a strategic approach to roster management and salary cap matters.

Why it matters

The situation surrounding Anthony Davis illustrates how injuries and contract size can drastically affect a player's value and team dynamics. Dallas's split from Davis relieves them from lengthy financial and lineup challenges that could have hampered their progress, while Davis will need to overcome health barriers and inefficiencies to justify future contracts and maintain his standing in the league.

The details

Consistency has eluded Davis largely because injuries have hindered his ability to build rhythm and momentum. These health setbacks have diminished his influence on both ends of the floor, with Davis no longer asserting the kind of defensive dominance he displayed with the Los Angeles Lakers. Additionally, his hefty contract complicates team-building efforts, especially since he is not a primary offensive threat. Despite shooting below 30 percent from three-point range since the 2019-20 season, Davis has insisted on playing power forward rather than center, creating difficulties for lineups.

  • The Dallas Mavericks dealt Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards earlier this month.
  • Davis has averaged only 20.4 points per game this season, his lowest scoring output since his rookie season.

The players

Anthony Davis

A star NBA player who was traded from the Dallas Mavericks to the Washington Wizards earlier this month. Davis has struggled with injuries and declining performance, leading to him being ranked among the NBA's most overrated players.

Luka Doncic

The star player of the Dallas Mavericks, who was involved in the trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards.

Nico Harrison

The general manager of the Dallas Mavericks, who envisioned acquiring Anthony Davis in a trade involving Luka Doncic.

Dereck Lively II

A young big man on the Dallas Mavericks roster, whose playing time was affected by the presence of Anthony Davis.

Daniel Gafford

A young big man on the Dallas Mavericks roster, whose playing time was affected by the presence of Anthony Davis.

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What’s next

The Mavericks will look to continue building around Luka Doncic and integrate the new players and draft picks they received in the Anthony Davis trade.

The takeaway

The Mavericks' decision to trade Anthony Davis before his value dropped further signals their strategic approach to roster management and salary cap matters. The situation surrounding Davis illustrates the risks of committing significant resources to a player who struggles with injuries and inefficiency, even if they were once considered an elite NBA talent.