The NBA landscape shifted dramatically on Wednesday as the Washington Wizards executed a stunning pre-deadline maneuver, acquiring 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis from the Dallas Mavericks. In a massive eight-player deal that signals a bold new era in D.C., the Wizards have paired Davis with fellow All-Star acquisition Trae Young, creating one of the league's most intriguing new duos. The blockbuster trade sees the Mavericks pivoting toward a rebuild, receiving a package headlined by veteran forward Khris Middleton and significant draft capital.

Inside the Massive 8-Player Deal

Broken by ESPN's Shams Charania just 24 hours before the NBA trade deadline 2026, the transaction involves a complex exchange of established stars, young prospects, and future assets. The Anthony Davis Wizards trade sends the superstar big man to Washington along with guards D'Angelo Russell, Jaden Hardy, and Dante Exum.

In return, the Dallas Mavericks receive:

  • Khris Middleton (Forward)
  • AJ Johnson (Guard)
  • Malaki Branham (Forward)
  • Marvin Bagley III (Center)
  • 2026 First-Round Pick (via OKC)
  • 2030 First-Round Pick (via Warriors, top-20 protected)
  • Three future second-round picks

This exchange marks a significant pivot for both franchises. For Washington, it represents an aggressive "buy-low" opportunity on a superstar talent. For Dallas, it signifies the end of a turbulent chapter following the controversial Luka Dončić trade to Los Angeles a year prior.

Wizards Build a New Star Core in D.C.

The acquisition of Anthony Davis creates a formidable, albeit currently sidelined, star pairing in the nation's capital. Having already acquired playmaker Trae Young from the Atlanta Hawks earlier in January, the Wizards have quickly assembled a high-ceiling core intended to compete in the Eastern Conference next season.

While Washington Wizards rumors had suggested the team was open to taking on bad contracts for assets, this move indicates a desire to accelerate their timeline. The vision is clear: pair Young's elite playmaking with Davis's defensive versatility and scoring prowess. Ideally, Davis will slot in next to 2024 No. 2 overall pick Alex Sarr, forming a terrifying defensive frontcourt that blends size, length, and switchability.

"This is a calculated risk," one league executive told SportsVot. "If Davis and Young get healthy, Washington suddenly has two top-25 talents on the roster to mentor their young core of Sarr and Bilal Coulibaly."

Mavericks Pivot to the Cooper Flagg Era

For the Mavericks, this trade is less about immediate returns and more about clearing the decks. By moving off Davis's maximum salary—which pays him nearly $60 million next season—Dallas achieves massive financial flexibility. The inclusion of Khris Middleton provides a veteran presence, but his expiring contract (along with those of Branham and Bagley) allows the Mavericks to reset their books completely.

The primary motivation for the Mavericks appears to be building around rookie sensation Cooper Flagg. After a disappointing season where the Davis-Kyrie Irving partnership failed to launch due to injuries, Dallas is cutting its losses. The draft capital acquired, including the Thunder's 2026 first-rounder, adds ammunition to their rebuild, ensuring they can surround their new franchise cornerstone with young talent tailored to his timeline.

Injury Concerns and 2026 Outlook

While the on-paper potential of a Trae Young Anthony Davis duo is tantalizing, fans may have to wait to see it in action. Davis is currently sidelined with a hand injury that has kept him out since early January, while Young is recovering from MCL and quad issues. Reports suggest that neither star is likely to suit up for the Wizards this season, as the team prioritizes a high lottery pick in the loaded 2026 draft.

This "draft-and-stash" strategy effectively allows Washington to tank for one more high-end prospect before unleashing their new super-team in the 2026-27 season. With the 2026 NBA roster moves now largely settled for Washington, the focus shifts to rehabilitation and integrating the new role players like D'Angelo Russell into the culture.

What's Next Before the Buzzer?

With the NBA breaking news today dominated by this blockbuster, the market has been set. The Wizards have proven to be aggressive buyers of distressed assets, while the Mavericks have signaled they are open for business. As the Thursday 3 PM deadline approaches, expect other teams to react to this massive shift in the power balance.