Anthony Davis Trade Leaves Wizards Extension Unlikely

The Mavericks sent Anthony Davis to the Wizards in a multi-player deal that included Jaden Hardy, D'Angelo Russell and others for Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley III and several draft picks. Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix said Davis is "not loving this" and added, "I don't see an extension coming." The move follows Washington's trade for Trae Young and reshapes the team's long-term roster priorities. Merlin sees a veteran star in a tight spot. Davis turns 33, is coming off hand surgery and carries a huge 2026-27 salary, so a long-term commitment would be risky. Washington wants to show Young they are serious, and unless the Wiz start winning quickly, Davis looks more like a short-term piece than a centerpiece.