Anthony Davis is set to undergo surgery for ligament damage in his left hand, sources told ESPN via Shams Charania on Tuesday, January 13. The procedure will sideline the 32-year-old forward for several months, effectively ending his season with the Dallas Mavericks.
Davis, in the first year of a three-year, $175 million contract, is averaging 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists over 20 games this season. He is shooting .506 from the field and .270 from three-point range, providing Dallas with consistent interior scoring and defensive presence before the injury.
The timing of the surgery coincides with renewed trade discussions, with multiple teams reportedly expressing interest in acquiring Davis. Charania noted that a move to a playoff contender could allow him to return during the postseason while setting up a long-term fit elsewhere.
The Mavericks currently sit 12th in the Western Conference at 15–25, well outside playoff positioning. Dallas has struggled to maintain consistency, ranking below league average offensively while facing challenges against top-tier teams.
Dallas’ roster features young contributors like 19-year-old Cooper Flagg, who is averaging 19.1 points and 6.4 rebounds, and P.J. Washington, producing 14.7 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. Yet, the team has lacked the veteran star power to contend in a competitive Western Conference.
The injury complicates Dallas’ strategy as it evaluates the potential return in any trade. Davis’ combination of size, scoring, and defensive versatility remains highly valuable for teams targeting immediate playoff impact.
