Here’s a bombshell for Dallas Mavericks fans: Anthony Davis might need surgery on his hand, according to sources close to the situation. And this is the part most people miss—if the surgery happens, it could sideline the star player for several months, potentially derailing the Mavs’ season. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon broke the news, revealing that an MRI on Friday confirmed ligament damage in Davis’ left hand, sustained while defending Lauri Markkanen during Thursday’s loss to the Utah Jazz. But here’s where it gets controversial—Davis is seeking second opinions to determine if surgery is truly necessary. If he opts for a nonsurgical approach, he’s still expected to miss at least six weeks, which isn’t exactly a walk in the park.
This injury adds another layer of complexity to Davis’ already complicated situation with the Mavs. With the February 5 trade deadline looming, the team has been actively exploring trade options for the 32-year-old, 10-time All-Star. But here’s the kicker—his history of durability issues and his push for a lucrative contract extension this offseason are making potential deals tricky. Davis is set to earn $58.5 million next season, with a player option for $62.8 million in 2027-28, so teams are understandably hesitant to commit.
Since joining the Mavs in early February as the centerpiece of the controversial Luka Doncic trade, injuries have limited Davis to just 29 games and a couple of play-in appearances. His debut with the team was cut short by an adductor strain, which kept him out for six weeks. This season alone, he missed 14 games in November with a strained left calf—an absence prolonged by Mavs governor Patrick Dumont’s cautious approach to his return. And let’s not forget the minor adductor strain he suffered during the Christmas Day loss to the Golden State Warriors, which cost him another two games.
Despite the setbacks, Davis has been a force when on the court, averaging 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks in 20 games this season. But here’s the question that’s dividing fans—is Davis worth the risk, given his injury history and contract demands? Or should the Mavs cut their losses and move on? Let us know what you think in the comments—this is one debate that’s far from over.
