In a stunning move that reshapes the NBA landscape, the Dallas Mavericks have traded 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards in a complex multi-team deal involving the Charlotte Hornets. The trade marks a significant roster reset for Dallas as they pivot toward the future.
| Dallas Mavericks | → | Washington Wizards |
|---|---|---|
| Khris Middleton | Anthony Davis | |
| AJ Johnson | Jaden Hardy | |
| Malaki Branham | D'Angelo Russell | |
| Marvin Bagley III | Dante Exum | |
| 2 First-Round Picks | ||
| 3 Second-Round Picks |
The Trade Details
On February 5, 2026, the Dallas Mavericks agreed to send Anthony Davis to Washington. The Wizards also received Jaden Hardy, D'Angelo Russell, and Dante Exum in the deal. This multi-team transaction involved the Charlotte Hornets as a third team, making it one of the most complex deadline deals of the year.
In return, the Mavericks acquired a significant package headlined by veteran forward Khris Middleton, along with young players AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, and Marvin Bagley III. Dallas also secured an extensive draft capital package, including two first-round picks and three second-round picks, giving them plenty of assets for the future.
Washington's Vision
The Wizards are clearly doubling down on building around Trae Young, acquiring Davis despite the fact that the star big man is currently rehabbing an injury and may miss the rest of the season. This signals Washington's commitment to competing sooner rather than later with their franchise player.
Adding Davis gives Washington one of the most talented frontcourts in the league when healthy. The pairing of Davis with Young creates an exciting core that could make the Wizards a serious playoff contender in the Western Conference.
Dallas's Roster Reset
For Dallas, this trade represents a clear direction shift. After acquiring Davis in a blockbuster deal last season, the Mavericks have now completely changed course, choosing to stockpile draft picks and young assets rather than compete for a championship now.
The return of Middleton gives Dallas a veteran presence who can contribute immediately, while players like Johnson and Branham represent promising young talent that the Mavericks can develop. The haul of draft picks provides general manager Nico Harrison with flexibility for future moves.
The 2026 NBA trade deadline has proven to be one of the most active in recent memory, with this Davis trade serving as another blockbuster in a series of major moves around the league.