Breaking Trade February 6, 2026 7 min read

ANTHONY DAVIS TRADED TO WASHINGTON WIZARDS IN FRANCHISE-ALTERING DEAL

In the biggest post-deadline shakeup, the Dallas Mavericks trade their superstar big man along with three key players to Washington in a blockbuster seven-player deal with significant draft compensation.

Anthony Davis Washington Wizards

Anthony Davis joins the Washington Wizards in a blockbuster trade.

In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, the Dallas Mavericks have traded eight-time All-Star Anthony Davis along with Jaden Hardy, D'Angelo Russell, and Dante Exum to the Washington Wizards in a massive seven-player deal completed just one day after the trade deadline. The unprecedented post-deadline transaction was made possible through special league approval and represents a significant reshaping for both franchises.

THE HISTORIC TRADE PACKAGE

WASHINGTON WIZARDS RECEIVE

  • Anthony Davis (C/F)
  • Jaden Hardy (G)
  • D'Angelo Russell (G)
  • Dante Exum (G)

DALLAS MAVERICKS RECEIVE

  • Khris Middleton (F)
  • AJ Johnson (G)
  • Tyus Jones (G)
  • Marvin Bagley III (F/C)
  • 2026 First-Round Pick
  • 2030 First-Round Pick
  • Three Future 2nd-Round Picks

The Mavericks receive a significant haul including veteran All-Star Khris Middleton, promising young guard AJ Johnson, reliable floor general Tyus Jones, and versatile big man Marvin Bagley III. The two first-round picks and three second-rounders give Dallas valuable assets to rebuild around Luka Dončić.

"This was an incredibly difficult decision, but it's the right move for our franchise's future. We thank Anthony for everything he's done for the Mavericks and wish him nothing but success in Washington."

— Nico Harrison, Mavericks General Manager

WIZARDS' ALL-IN PUSH

The acquisition of Anthony Davis immediately transforms the Wizards into legitimate championship contenders. Pairing Davis with their existing young core creates one of the most formidable frontcourts in the NBA and gives Washington its first true superstar since John Wall's prime years.

"Anthony Davis is one of the greatest two-way players of this generation," said Wizards owner Ted Leonsis. "This is our commitment to winning at the highest level and bringing a championship to Washington D.C. We're all-in."

ANTHONY DAVIS' SEASON STATS

24.7
Points Per Game
12.6
Rebounds Per Game
3.5
Assists Per Game
2.3
Blocks Per Game

MAVERICKS RETOOL AROUND LUKA

For Dallas, this trade signals a strategic retooling around superstar Luka Dončić. After acquiring Anthony Davis earlier this season, the Mavericks are pivoting to add depth and veteran experience with Khris Middleton while also securing young talent in AJ Johnson and draft capital for the future.

"Khris is a proven championship player who knows how to win at the highest level," explained Mavericks coach Jason Kidd. "Along with Tyus, AJ, and Marvin, we're adding quality pieces who can contribute immediately while maintaining flexibility for our future."

ANTHONY DAVIS CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

  • 2020 NBA Champion (Los Angeles Lakers)
  • 8x NBA All-Star
  • 4x All-NBA First Team
  • 4x NBA All-Defensive Team
  • 3x NBA blocks leader
  • 2012 Olympic Gold Medalist

EASTERN CONFERENCE SHAKEUP

The addition of Anthony Davis to the Eastern Conference immediately alters the playoff landscape. The Wizards, who were fighting for a play-in spot, now become legitimate threats to the conference's elite teams. Davis' elite two-way play and championship experience make Washington a dangerous opponent for any team.

"We just added a top-10 player in the league," said Wizards head coach Wes Unseld Jr. "Anthony changes everything for us defensively and offensively. We can compete with anyone now."

"I'm excited for this new chapter. Washington has shown they're committed to winning, and I can't wait to help bring a championship to this city and these passionate fans."

— Anthony Davis

IMMEDIATE IMPACT & DEBUT

Davis is expected to make his Wizards debut as early as this weekend against the Philadelphia 76ers. The 31-year-old superstar will immediately slot into the starting lineup alongside D'Angelo Russell and Dante Exum, while Jaden Hardy provides scoring punch off the bench.

Meanwhile, Khris Middleton, Tyus Jones, AJ Johnson, and Marvin Bagley III are set to join the Mavericks where they'll complement Luka Dončić. Middleton's championship experience and Jones' veteran leadership will be invaluable as Dallas makes its playoff push.

LEAGUE-WIDE REACTIONS

The trade has dominated headlines across the sports world, with analysts praising Washington's aggressive approach while acknowledging the Lakers' bold decision to rebuild. Many believe this move will define both franchises for the next decade.

NBA News Team

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