Anthony Davis Trade Deadline Looms Mavericks Need His Say

Merlin sees the Mavericks racing the Feb. 5 trade deadline but likely needing Anthony Davis to bless any move. As ESPN’s Tim MacMahon said, "they're going to have some say in the matter." Golden State has shown interest, yet Marc Stein reports they "do not appear to be actively doing so" with questions around Davis size of contract and injury history. Merlin notes that when healthy Davis is a title changer, so suitors must offer a clear plan and probably a contract extension to win him over. That gives Dallas leverage and limits frantic deals. Expect teams to court Davis quietly while the clock winds down, looking to align roster fit with his personal wishes.