The Washington Wizards have confirmed that Anthony Davis will not return to play this season as he focuses on recovery. The veteran player, recently traded from the Dallas Mavericks, is dealing with hand and groin injuries that prevent him from contributing on the court this year. This decision comes as the Wizards prepare for the upcoming 2026-27 season, aiming to have Davis healthy and ready to contribute when play resumes.
Details of Trade and Impact on Davis’ Playing Time
On the NBA Trade Deadline day, February 5, the Dallas Mavericks sent Anthony Davis along with Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell, and Dante Exum to the Wizards. In exchange, the Mavericks received Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley III, two first-round draft picks, and three second-round selections. Despite this significant trade, Davis has yet to make his debut for Washington due to injuries.
Since January, Davis has been sidelined with a finger injury, which further delays his return. This absence aligns with the Wizards’ broader strategy of resting key players, including Trae Young, to focus on long-term success rather than immediate results, especially given their current placement near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings.
Team Strategy Amid Struggles and Injuries
The Wizards currently hold the 13th spot in the Eastern Conference, and their performance has reflected that position. With a poor record this season, the team appears willing to prioritize rebuilding through the NBA Draft and preserving their core players’ health. Resting Davis and others may increase their chances of securing a favorable lottery pick to strengthen their roster moving forward.
Jason Kidd’s Perspective on Davis’ Departure from Mavericks
Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd expressed regret over losing Anthony Davis. He acknowledged the challenges the team faced in integrating Davis due to injuries affecting him and other players like Cooper Flagg and Kai. Kidd emphasized the missed opportunity to see the full squad together on the court.
His health. We never got to see everyone together, so not just AD, but Kai, and with Coop, so unfortunately, we didn’t have that opportunity. AD is an incredible basketball player and a great human being.
Jason Kidd, Dallas Mavericks Head Coach
Davis’ Limited Time in Dallas and Prospects with Wizards
Davis appeared in only 20 games for the Mavericks this season and 29 games across two seasons, limited by an adductor strain and hand injury. These setbacks hindered his ability to build chemistry with younger teammates like Cooper Flagg. This season, Davis averaged 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, shooting 50.6% from the field and 27% beyond the arc.
As he transitions to Washington, Davis faces the challenge of regaining full health before contributing to the Wizards’ lineup next season. The team’s approach to prioritize his recovery highlights their focus on leveraging his playoff experience in the future.
BREAKING: Washington Wizards star Anthony Davis (hand, groin) expected to sit out the remainder of the season to fully get healthy for the 2026-27 season, league sources tell me. pic.twitter.com/HKqEL9mBFC
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) February 7, 2026
