Anthony Davis is playing with a renewed sense of purpose—and according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, it’s no accident.
The veteran big man was traded to the Dallas Mavericks on February 2 in a blockbuster deal for Luka Doncic, a move that shocked the league and instantly shifted the power structure in the West.
Since arriving in Dallas, Davis has shown flashes of elite form, despite battling injuries that sidelined him for 18 games.
In a recent appearance on The Hoop Collective, Windhorst outlined four clear motivations driving the 32-year-old forward.
“I think what you’re seeing from AD is that he’s motivated by four different things,” Windhorst said, via ClutchPoints.
“He’s motivated to send a message to the fans, to his teammates, to Mavericks GM Nico Harrison, and to himself.”
Windhorst noted the longtime relationship between Davis and Harrison as a factor in the former Laker’s commitment.
Harrison, who worked with Davis during his time as a Nike executive, was reportedly instrumental in finalizing the deal that sent Doncic to Los Angeles.
“He wants to have Nico’s back as much as he can,” Windhorst added.
Davis made his Mavericks debut on February 8, recording 26 points, 16 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 blocks in a win over Houston.
He strained his left adductor in that game but returned on March 24 after a lengthy rehab assignment with the Texas Legends.
Just over a week later, Davis hit a game-winner against Atlanta, despite suffering an eye injury earlier that night.
His current averages in Dallas—19.5 points, 9.7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 blocks over six games—reflect both his impact and the adjustments he’s making.
The Mavericks are currently 38-39 and clinging to the No. 9 seed in the Western Conference standings.
While Dallas remains far behind top teams like Oklahoma City and Houston, Davis’ presence is expected to stabilize a roster adjusting to life without Doncic.
The trade was historic in scope, marking the first time two All-NBA players were swapped midseason.
Dallas also sent a 2025 second-round pick to Utah as part of the three-team agreement, with the Jazz receiving Jalen Hood-Schifino and draft compensation from the Lakers.
Windhorst emphasized that Davis isn’t just playing for external validation.
“He wants to show everybody—and himself—that he can still be the centerpiece of a franchise,” Windhorst said.
Prior to the trade, Davis was averaging 25.7 points and 11.9 rebounds per game for the Purple and Gold.
As the regular season winds down, all eyes will be on whether the Mavericks can secure a playoff berth and how far Davis can take them.
