Interest in Anthony Davis is rising across the league, and multiple teams are evaluating whether the Dallas forward could become available before the February deadline.
Reporting from ESPN’s Tim Bontemps and comments from Kendrick Perkins have placed both the Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons among the clubs showing early intrigue.
Bontemps noted that league personnel are watching Chicago closely as the franchise considers several roster paths. The Bulls hold more than $80 million in expiring contracts, and one Western Conference executive told ESPN he could envision Chicago pursuing Davis, a Chicago native.
That speculation stems from the organization’s current build. Josh Giddey has provided reliable playmaking next to Nikola Vucevic, and the executive suggested Giddey could benefit from a more dynamic rim target if the Bulls explore major upgrades.
Detroit, meanwhile, has also been linked to Davis. Perkins said on the Road Trippin’ podcast that his sources have conveyed the Pistons’ interest as they survey impact players who could reshape their frontcourt.
Dallas has not committed to moving Davis, but several reporters continue to hear the club is prepared to evaluate all incoming calls. Marc Stein reported on Substack that the Mavericks will listen to inquiries as they assess the market over the coming months.
Stein added that Dallas’ stance is rooted in offer quality, meaning the franchise is unlikely to act unless presented with a return that aligns with its long-term plans. The calculus is also influenced by Davis’ availability, as the 32-year-old is currently sidelined with a calf strain and carries an extensive injury history.
The Athletic’s Christian Clark shared similar information from team sources. Dallas intends to be “opportunistic” and remains focused on building around Cooper Flagg, whose early production has made him central to the franchise’s future planning.
Clark’s reporting also described the organization as still gathering information, working to determine the type of roster move that fits its direction after a 4–12 start.
Davis has appeared in only five games this season, averaging 20.8 points and 10.2 rebounds in 29.8 minutes. His three-year, $175 million contract began this year, making any trade discussions complex for interested teams.
