The Atlanta Hawks officially began a new era of basketball last week. They traded Trae Young to the Washington Wizards for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert. The team wanted more cap flexibility rather than having Young’s $49 million player option looming this summer. This is not the only significant move Atlanta could make, as reports indicate the Hawks have interest in Anthony Davis. However, the Hawks must weigh the big risks associated with the star big man from a health, contract, and roster development standpoint.
3 Reasons the Hawks Should Stay Away From Anthony Davis
Anthony Davis Has a Lengthy Injury History
When Davis is healthy, he unquestionably ranks among the best defenders, rebounders, and low-post scorers in the league. He averages 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.7 blocks for the season. People rarely question his on-court production, but his availability leaves a lot to be desired.
Davis has only played 20 games this season and reached the 65-game mark four times in his 14-year career. Multiple groin and calf strains limited him at the beginning of the season, but his latest unfortunate injury could result in a multi-month absence. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Davis will miss at least six weeks with ligament damage in his left hand. If the 10-time All-Star needs Surgery, he could miss multiple months.
Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis has sustained ligament damage in his left hand, sources tell me and @BannedMacMahon. Depending on second opinion and if surgery is required, Davis could miss a number of months. pic.twitter.com/POS4szWjUY
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 9, 2026
This injury likely kills Davis’ trade market ahead of the Feb. 5 deadline. He would not be able to help Atlanta re-light the flame when it was five games over .500 in November. The Hawks might see Davis as a potential fit next to Onyeka Okongwu and Jalen Johnson in a big frontcourt trio, which moves Johnson to small forward. However, the risks surrounding the 32-year-old’s health and contract should deter Atlanta from pursuing him any further.
