The Dallas Mavericks are facing challenges on and off the court following their controversial trade of superstar Luka Dončić to the LA Lakers, acquiring 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis. Though Davis was expected to bolster the team's defense, he has barely had time to settle, having played just one game since joining Dallas before sustaining a strain to his left adductor on February 8, 2025.
After months of nursing his injury, the Mavericks announced on Monday, March 17, 2025, they have officially assigned Davis to their G League affiliate, the Texas Legends. This move allows him to participate in much-needed five-on-five scrimmages as he works toward regaining match fitness, which is pivotal as the Mavericks push for the playoffs. "Davis is eager to return to help the team as they sit precariously on the edge of the postseason race with a 33-36 record and currently occupying the last play-in spot for the Western Conference," ESPN's Tim MacMahon reported.
His assignment is not without its complications, though. ESPN notes there has been discussion about potentially shutting Davis down for the rest of the season to avoid the risk of aggravation to his injury, recognizing how valuable he is to the franchise. Nevertheless, Davis’s determination to return is apparent, reflecting his refusal to give up even as the season draws to a close.
The Mavericks have suffered greatly from injuries, with Davis not the only player sidelined. Guard Jaden Hardy has also been sent down to the Legends after missing seven games due to ankle issues. During this difficult stretch, the Mavericks have frequently found themselves dressing only the league minimum of eight active players for games, most recently noted during their defeat against the Philadelphia 76ers on March 16. They have tasted success just once over their last nine contests, hampered by injuries to key players such as Davis, Kyrie Irving (who is out with a torn ACL), and Dereck Lively II (who is nursing an ankle stress fracture).
Headlining the fallout from their injury-ridden roster, Mavericks GM Nico Harrison is facing mounting criticism from fans. Frustration has boiled over, resulting in some chanting slogans like "Fire Nico" during games. P.J. Washington, one of the Mavericks players, voiced his concerns, stating, "All this 'Fire Nico' stuff, we’re sick and tired of hearing it. We just want to go out there and play and we need the fans to support us no matter who’s on the floor," as reported by the Dallas Morning News.
To complicate matters, key two-way players, Kessler Edwards and Brandon Williams, are nearing the end of their allotted games with the NBA team, reaching the 50-game limit before they must be returned to the G League. This restriction leaves the Mavericks with significant flexibility issues as they wish to maintain adequate depth on their roster. Their challenging financial situation prohibits them from easily signing replacements for these players. Although the Mavericks remain eligible for hardship exceptions, their position near the salary cap limits their options to bring any new talent aboard.
While the Mavericks do have the opportunity to improve their prospects through strategic game timing and performance, doubts loom large. If they were to intentionally lose the remaining games, it could potentially strengthen their lottery odds. Yet, this scenario raises questions about the future value of players like Davis, along with the repercussions of risking more injuries when the playoffs beckon so closely.
With every game, the severity of Dallas’s injury crisis grows clearer. Most recently, the Mavericks suffered consecutive defeats, falling 133-96 against the Houston Rockets followed by the loss to the 76ers. The cumulative weight of injuries and management decisions has made this season particularly tumultuous, overshadowing the Mavericks' once-optimistic outlook for the current campaign.
Looking forward, the Dallas Mavericks are at a crossroads. Should they prioritize player health and long-term strategy, potentially forgoing short-term competitiveness? With Davis eager to return and the franchise struggling just to field enough players, the future remains uncertain. The upcoming games will surely hold dramatic stakes as clarity on roster decisions and playoff ambitions begin to crystallize.
