Anthony Davis’ future with the Dallas Mavericks has been thrown into doubt after conflicting views emerged between the All-Star big man and his long-time agent, Rich Paul.

What initially appeared to be routine background noise has now developed into a situation that could test the relationship between player, representation, and franchise.

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The disagreement has centred on whether Dallas truly represents the best long-term environment for Davis at this stage of his career.

Photo by Daniel Boczarski/Getty Images for PATRÓN Tequila

Photo by Daniel Boczarski/Getty Images for PATRÓN Tequila

Rich Paul and Anthony Davis are divided over Dallas future

NBA insider Tim MacMahon revealed that Davis and his agent are not fully aligned when it comes to the Mavericks’ direction.

“There are trade discussions; his agent, Rich Paul, has made it clear he thinks it’s in AD’s best interest to be traded. AD does not necessarily agree, though.

“I have been told he has not been pushing to be moved and is comfortable here in Dallas,” MacMahon reported.

Davis was traded to the Mavericks in February 2025 in a blockbuster deal that sent Luka Doncic to the LA Lakers, instantly reshaping the league. Since arriving in Dallas, Davis has taken on a central role, both as the team’s defensive anchor and as a primary scoring option in the frontcourt.

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While Paul appears to be weighing broader long-term considerations, Davis himself is understood to be settled and open to continuing the project in Dallas.

Should Anthony Davis push for a Dallas Mavericks exit?

From a basketball perspective, Davis’ impact in Dallas has been clear when he has been on the floor. He has continued to provide elite rim protection, rebounding, and efficient scoring, traits that made him one of the league’s most dominant two-way big men during his prime years.

However, availability remains the key concern. Injuries have followed Davis throughout his career, and that pattern has not entirely disappeared in Dallas. While he has delivered strong performances, his minutes and game-to-game presence have required careful management, limiting continuity for the Mavericks.

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The question facing Davis is whether staying in Dallas offers the best chance to contend while preserving his health. A trade could place him in a more stable or deeper roster environment, but it would also mean another reset after already adjusting to a major mid-season move.

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