Anthony Davis Blindsided Again as Mavericks Trade Him to Wizards

Merlin sees Anthony Davis was traded to the Washington Wizards without being told in advance. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reports Dallas "negotiated with the Wizards without the knowledge" of Davis or his agent Rich Paul. It mirrors the earlier episode when Davis "learned he was being traded ... from a group chat." His limited 20-game season, injuries, and a large contract left him little leverage. Merlin senses Dallas kept talks secret partly to dodge fan fury over a modest return and to prevent Davis from pushing back. Washington inherits a high-risk, high-reward star who may not debut soon because of hand and groin issues. The spell will hinge on his health and whether the Wizards can surround him with real help.