DALLAS, TEXAS – DECEMBER 23: Anthony Davis #3 of the Dallas Mavericks looks on during the game against the Denver Nuggets at American Airlines Center on December 23, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images)

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Justin Grasso

By Justin Grasso

Contributing Sports Writer

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One year after the Mavs struck one of the most shocking trades in NBA history with the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas’ front office might officially accept its loss.

However, Davis doesn’t seem to want that.

What’s the Latest on AD’s Preference?

ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reports this week that Davis prefers to stay in Dallas and get an extension done.

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As far as the Mavericks go, their mindset on the situation might complicate Davis’s plans.

"AD's preference would be to stay in Dallas and to get that extension this summer,” said MacMahon.
“The Mavericks are trying to generate a good trade market for Anthony Davis. That is difficult because of the durability issues, and I think more so the dollars. In a situation like this, Rich Paul is going to be involved. They are going to want AD traded somewhere that is willing to give him a long, lucrative extension."

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Davis, 32, is working on acquiring what could be his last big deal in the NBA. As the injuries pile up and the years continue to pass, Davis’ long-term contract value is dipping. The sooner he can get something done, the better.

Currently, Davis is in the midst of a three-year deal he signed in Los Angeles. After making $54.1 million this year, he’ll earn $58.4 million next season. A player option for $62.7 million will be on the table in 2027.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 20: Anthony Davis #3 of the Dallas Mavericks dribbles the ball against Jabari Walker #33 of the Philadelphia 76ers in the second half at Xfinity Mobile Arena on December 20, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. The 76ers defeated the Mavericks 121-114. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)

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Should Davis Stay or Push for a Deal?

It’s been over a year since the trade, and Davis still hasn’t had the opportunity to play steady minutes with every core member of the Mavs.

Kyrie Irving, who tore his ACL last year, shared the court with Davis for under 30 minutes. He’s still recovering without a target return date revealed.

With Irving, the Mavericks see themselves as contenders in the Western Conference. Without him, they are off to a 13-23 start, sitting 11th in the Western Conference.

You’ll have a hard time finding any NBA fan or analyst under the belief that the Mavs didn’t get fleeced by the Lakers after sending them Luka Doncic for a shockingly modest price beyond Davis, but the veteran forward/center doesn’t want to see Dallas attempt to erase Nico Harrison’s big move by relocating him.

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