Update on Anthony Davis Joining Bulls on Monday

The 2025-26 season has been challenging for the Dallas Mavericks. Anthony Davis, who joined Dallas in February as part of the trade sending Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, was anticipated to lead the revamped Mavericks toward championship contention. However, Davis has only appeared in six games this season, and Dallas currently holds a 6-15 record, placing them 12th in the Western Conference.

Davis limited availability, worsened by a calf injury sustained on October 29, has disrupted the teams rhythm and chemistry. As frustration grows in Dallas, trade rumors surrounding Davis have intensified in recent weeks.

One of the teams frequently mentioned in connection with Davis is the Chicago Bulls, who have a 9-10 record and are searching for a strong rim protector. Their current interior defense, particularly with Nikola Vucevic, has been inconsistent. According to ESPNs Jamal Collier, the Bulls have internally discussed acquiring Davis, seeing him as a player who could strengthen their weak paint defense.

Sources told Collier that the trade seems more realistic because Davis hails from Chicago. The Bulls roster already includes local players like Ayo Dosunmu, Jevon Carter, and Matas Buzelis, which is viewed as an added incentive for the team.

The Bulls have had internal discussions about how to proceed, including conversations about Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis, sources told ESPN, whom they believe could help the team's porous rim defense.

Despite speculation, the Bulls are reportedly unwilling to part with any of their young core unless they are closer to contending for a championship. Meanwhile, the Mavericks have shown no indication of trading Davis. Team minority owner Mark Cuban reaffirmed that Dallas does not plan to move Davis, emphasizing the teams intention to compete for wins.

Davis remains under contract with Dallas through at least the 2027-28 season and, when healthy, is one of the leagues most dominant big men. This season, he is averaging 19.3 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game while shooting 52.9% from the field, demonstrating his potential value to the Mavericks.

The 10-time All-Star, who missed the recent game against the Los Angeles Clippers, is expected to return when Dallas faces the Denver Nuggets on Monday as he continues to manage his calf injury. Even amid trade chatter, the Mavericks appear committed to Davis, counting on his contributions to anchor the frontcourt and help steer the team back toward playoff contention.

Author: Sophia Brooks