Anthony Davis is stepping into the 2025-26 NBA season with the perfect storm to deliver his best campaign yet – and at 32 years old, he might finally have the ideal stage to prove it.
After a blockbuster February trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers and brought Davis to Dallas alongside Max Christie and a future first-round pick, the Mavericks are now built around the eight-time All-Star and veteran guard Kyrie Irving.
While the move initially drew heavy backlash from fans, GM Nico Harrison has assembled a deep, versatile roster that puts AD at the center of the team’s title hopes – and for the first time, he’s the unquestioned No. 1 option.
Davis’ early stint in Dallas was brief – just nine games – but promising, as he averaged 20 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 4.4 assists while shooting 46.1% from the field. A full season with a balanced supporting cast could unlock even more production.
AD has the team it needs to succeed
Unlike in Los Angeles, where he shared the spotlight with LeBron James, or in New Orleans, where championship contention was never realistic, Davis now has both the autonomy to dominate and a roster capable of making a deep playoff run.
The Mavericks’ frontcourt depth with Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford will allow Davis to play more at his preferred power forward spot, reducing his physical toll and potentially keeping him healthier throughout the season.
Defensive stalwarts like rookie Cooper Flagg, PJ Washington, and Naji Marshall will further lighten his workload on that end, while shooters like Klay Thompson and Christie stretch the floor.
Irving’s return will make the Mavs unstoppable
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With Irving sidelined early due to ACL surgery, Davis will be the focal point of the offense, supported by new signing D’Angelo Russell’s playmaking. Even when Kyrie returns, Dallas is expected to keep its offense running through AD.
If he stays healthy, Davis has the rare combination of talent, role, and roster fit to not only contend for MVP consideration but also lead the Mavericks deep into the postseason – perhaps proving that the risky Luka trade was worth it after all.
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