Anthony Davis and the Washington Wizards are entering the season saying the right things about their partnership, but a long-term commitment between the two sides remains far from certain.
According to David Aldridge and Josh Robbins of The Athletic, there is “almost no chance” Washington gives Davis the maximum-salary extension he is seeking, with his age, injury history and the Wizards’ rebuilding timeline creating significant obstacles.
Davis holds a $62.8 million player option for the 2027-28 season. If he declines it, he could be eligible for a four-year extension worth as much as $275 million through the 2030-31 season.
The 33-year-old remains one of the NBA’s premier two-way players when healthy. He has made 10 All-Star teams, four All-NBA First Teams and three All-Defensive First Teams, while helping the Los Angeles Lakers win the 2020 NBA championship.
However, Davis’ availability has become a major consideration. He has played more than 62 regular-season games only once over the last eight seasons, making a long-term commitment at close to the maximum particularly risky for Washington.
The Wizards also have a young core that will require significant financial investment in the coming years. AJ Dybantsa, selected No. 1 overall in this year’s NBA Draft, is viewed as a foundational piece, while Alex Sarr and Kyshawn George are also expected to receive substantial extensions eventually.
Washington already committed to Trae Young on a four-year, $213 million contract this summer. Young is 28, while Davis will turn 34 in March, making it difficult for the Wizards to commit more than $100 million annually to the two players while retaining enough flexibility to build around their younger talent.
Davis is also aware that his future in Washington will depend on how the team develops.
“When the season is over,” Davis said at media day when asked how he would approach his future. “They’re gonna go through the season and try to do what I do at a high level. And then, when it’s over, sit down and have those conversations again with the front office.”
For now, Davis is focused on helping Washington establish a new identity. He believes the Wizards have the personnel to become a strong defensive team and has set an ambitious target.
“I think we should be a top 10 defensive team for sure,” Davis said. “With the guys that we have and the ability that we have on the defensive end.”
The Wizards also hope Davis can help accelerate the development of Dybantsa and their other young players. Davis praised the No. 1 pick’s willingness to learn and believes he has the tools to make an immediate impact.
“He’s got all the tools to be successful in this league,” Davis said. “But he’s a special talent. He’s a very special talent. Can defend, can make any shot.”
The Athletic noted that Davis’ future could ultimately depend on whether Washington shows enough progress to convince him that its young core can develop into a contender. A strong season could make a long-term compromise more appealing, while a
