Dallas Mavericks center Anthony Davis is gearing up for his long-awaited return from injury by practicing with the Texas Legends, the team's NBA G League affiliate. This move came on March 17, 2025, after Davis had been sidelined since February 8, due to a left adductor strain incurred during his first game with the Mavericks.
Davis, who has enjoyed a successful season averaging 25.7 points, 15.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 2.2 blocks over 43 games, had only played one match since the blockbuster trade sending five-time All-NBA guard Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. On February 8, he put up 16 points, seven assists, and three blocks, contributing to the Mavericks' 116-105 victory against the Houston Rockets, only to leave the game late due to injury.
With the Mavericks struggling with injury-ridden roster issues, the team has frequently been down to the league minimum of eight players. This prompted the coaching staff to seek alternative ways to keep players fit and competitive, even if it meant sending them down to the G League for practice.
On March 7, following two weeks of limited updates, the Mavericks reported Davis was improving daily and had been cleared for more dynamic on-court movements. Such steps were pivotal, as the Mavericks needed him for their upcoming games, particularly against the Indiana Pacers on March 19. To facilitate this, they assigned him to the Texas Legends for five-on-five practice to simulate game situations.
This assignment carries significant importance as it allows Davis to regain his rhythm without risking re-injury by participating directly in NBA games. According to ESPN's Tim MacMahon, "Anthony Davis will practice with the Texas Legends so he can get 5-on-5 work as he ramps up for his return.”
Upon being assigned to the Legends, Davis joined Mavs guard Jaden Hardy, who was also recalled the same day, having practiced with Legends players to keep team chemistry intact for their next match. Speculation arose around when Davis would return to NBA action, especially since the Mavericks had been dealing with other injuries, making his presence increasingly necessary on the court.
The Mavericks have faced critiques from fans and commentators alike. Some urged the organization to allow Davis to sit out the remainder of the season, arguing it might be wise to preserve his health for future seasons, especially amid the likelihood of missing the playoffs. Social media reactions ranged from skepticism about the effectiveness of sending him to the G-League right now, to urges for the team to instead focus on long-term strategies rather than short-term fixes. Customers were noted saying things like, "Mavs Stop this nonsense, Let AD rest for the season. Get a Good lottery draft pick... Get a fresh start next season."
Davis's return is highly anticipated, with many fans and analysts speculating about his impact on the Mavericks' performance moving forward. The team will play against the Indiana Pacers on March 19, and the upcoming game against the Detroit Pistons on March 21 will follow shortly thereafter on their schedule. They will have another match against the Brooklyn Nets on March 24, after two days of rest.
Sport commentators and fans alike are left wondering how the Mavericks will perform without their star and how Davis's return will alter the dynamics of the team. Although he may suit up for practice with the Legends, his full readiness for competitive play remains undetermined, raising questions about the optimal approach the Mavericks should take to reintegrate him safely.
More updates on Davis will likely be expected soon as the team aims to capitalize on his talents now more than ever, especially with hopes of turning their season around. Ramping up for play during his time with the Legends prepares him for what could be the pivotal moment of the Mavericks’ season: the much-needed comeback of Anthony Davis.
