Anthony Davis. Image via: Candice Ward/ GettyImages Not the best time to be Anthony Davis, as his current NBA status hits a devastating career blow that might propel his early retirement. Of course, Davis is one of the most decorated NBA stars, but since his trade to the Dallas Mavericks from the Los Angeles Lakers, he has struggled to find his groove in the league. As a constant injury attempting to derail AD’s career, his status nearly a decade ago was also riddled with sidelines. In 2016, Davis was with the New Orleans Pelicans. During his stint as a Pelican, AD suffered multiple injuries, one of which ended his 2015-16 season. Fast forward, AD is almost a similar condition, if not worse. Just a year after his debut with the Mavs, AD is again in the chatter of the trade talks. On top of that, many speculate about his early retirement.Back then, Davis was at the height of his physical prime, delivering historic numbers while his body failed him at critical moments. In 2026, the setting has changed, but the story of it feels unsettlingly similar. Another season interrupted. Another injury started conversations, being the reminder of how thin the margin has always been for one of the league’s most gifted big men. As 2026 is the new 2016 trend continues online, let’s look at the injury comparison of Davis.
Anthony Davis’ injury history in 2016 with the New Orleans Pelicans
Anthony Davis. Image via: Jeff Chiu/AP
During the 2015–16 campaign, Anthony Davis was carrying the New Orleans Pelicans on both ends of the floor. His season ended early after a left knee injury and a torn labrum in his left shoulder. The Pelicans confirmed he would undergo procedures later, closing the book on a year defined by brilliance and frustration.Despite appearing in only 61 games, Davis produced one of the most dominant statistical seasons in the league. He averaged 24.6 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game. At the time, he was the only NBA player meeting those thresholds simultaneously. He ranked among the top 10 in scoring, rebounding, and blocks, led his team in scoring 37 times, rebounding 38 times, and logged 36 double-doubles. His All-Star selection felt inevitable.A year later, Davis reminded the league what full health could unlock. He appeared in 75 games, reclaimed his place among the elite, and set franchise records while earning MVP-level praise. As Alvin Gentry said at the time, “Unfortunately for us, we didn’t have the type of year we anticipated from a team standpoint, but if we had the year we anticipated, I think they very much would’ve been talking about him for MVP. I just think he’s been real consistent.”
Anthony Davis’ injury with the Dallas Mavericks puts his future hanging by a thread
Anthony Davis. Image via: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Now in Dallas, the cycle has returned. As of January 8, 2026 update, Davis injured his left hand late against the Utah Jazz after contact with Lauri Markkanen. He left the game in pain, and the Mavericks unraveled down the stretch. Jason Kidd later explained the sequence, saying, “I think the smart play is to just take the foul. That’s what we should have done.”An MRI revealed ligament damage, with reports suggesting possible season-ending surgery. Even without surgery, Davis could miss at least six weeks. The timing is brutal. Dallas was already exploring trade options ahead of the February deadline. Davis has played only 29 games for the franchise across two seasons, while earning $54.1 million this year and carrying massive future financial commitments.At 33 soon, Davis is still productive when he plays, averaging 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks. Also Read: “I knew”: Caitlin Clark drops candid reaction to Celtics backup center’s breakout stretch that turns heads league-wide