Anthony Davis Leaving Dallas in Surprise Trade to the Washington Wizards
While most NBA analysts and fans have been on Giannis watch, expecting the two-time MVP and/or the Bucks to announce his departure from Milwaukee, the Dallas Mavericks have again pulled off a stunning trade many people didn’t see coming. According to ESPN, the Texas-based team worked out a trade deal with the Washington Wizards that sends Anthony Davis and three other players to the nation’s capital.
It was only a little over a year ago when Dallas shocked the NBA world, sending the team’s then-superstar Luka Dončić packing to the Los Angeles Lakers and acquiring Davis. At the time, many naysayers firmly believed Dallas made a mistake with the trade (myself included), but Dallas firmly stood by their decision to acquire Davis. Unfortunately for the Mavs, due to the ACL tear Kyrie Irving suffered last season and the injuries of Davis himself, the team has had a lackluster start to the 2025-2026 NBA season, currently sitting at 12th in the Western Conference as of Publication.
So, who are the other players a part of this blockbuster trade between the Mavs and the Wizards? Here’s the deal.
The Washington Wizards Get Anthony Davis, and The Mavs Get Khris Middelton
Ruffles
The deal between the Wizards and Mavs goes as follows. In addition to Davis, Washington gets Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell, and Dante Exum. Besides the obvious contribution Davis can bring to the squad, it will be very interesting to watch the backcourt duo of Russell and recently acquired Trae Young. Don’t be surprised if the Wizards' new roster lands them in playoff contention come mid-April.
On the flip side of this trade, Dallas is allegedly picking up Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley III, two first-round draft picks, and three second-rounders. A healthy Irving paired with Middleton provides more championship experience for the Mavs roster. Middleton may not have delivered the numbers in DC that Bucks’ fans remember, but perhaps his new Dallas scenery will be the reset he needs to get back to form. Although Dallas may wind up missing the playoffs this year.
Any Word on Giannis Antetokounmpo?
I’ve remained skeptical that Antetokounmpo was leaving Milwaukee before this offseason for a while now, and my skepticism remains. His staying with the Bucks through the rest of this season and waiting until the summer behooves him and the Bucks, as more options for both parties are likely to become available. As of publication, there is no trade news to report on Antetokounmpo.