Trade & FA 2025-26: Free Agency Starts 5pm CST/6pm EST

[mvossman]

Davis might be one of the best centers in the league is a pretty problematic statement, imho. I think teams can have a ton of arguments to reduce his value. While he can be good, he is missing a lot of time due to injuries. He is also 33, which means a decline is more likely than improvement of his play and availability. He also wants to play PF, while he is obviously a center. Besides all of that, he is owed huge money for next two seasons and reportedly wants to sign an extension. He is paid like a number one, but I don't think he can be a number one - many issues constructing a contending roster under current CBA with such an expensive number two option. And finally, Mavs are probably better to trade him as soon as possible and build a contender around Flagg. Unless there is still hope that Mavs can be contenders with Irving and Davis in next season or two. 

Overall, Davis is a huge risk for any team. A very short term gamble for realistically just a couple of seasons. I wouldn't give up a fortune for such a player. If I am Chicago, I would not dream about becoming a contender with Davis (no matter what goes out in a trade in terms of players). I would rather patiently build around Buzelis and Giddey. In my opinion, a team that goes for Davis, would have to be pretty sure that he lifts them to contention level immediately. I only see teams like Detroit or SA in that category.

Davis is actually 32 but I agree with most of this sentiment.  I can see Chicago talking themselves into it because he is a hometown guy, makes them better, and is probably better than what they could get in free agency.  I don't think its the right move, but I could see the mindset.  There are also some teams that have no chance at big free agents and just want to compete for their fans.  He makes some sense in those scenarios as well.