Although the LA Clippers may take command with an aggressive pursuit in the market for stars around the league, Anthony Davis must be the one specific name left off their list. Thankfully, the front office will likely leave Clipper Nation stress-free about Davis, as Shams Charania recently reported that the three landing spots for him are all in the Eastern Conference: the Atlanta Hawks, Detroit Pistons, and Toronto Raptors.
These three teams believe Davis’ prime is not too far gone, as their perception of the 10-time All-Star in 2025-26 is someone who can still dominate both ends of the court, consistently stay healthy, and be the co-star through a championship run.
Rightfully so, the Clippers are avoiding the nightmare he brings. Lawrence Frank should simply wish them luck and leave them to it. LA does not need to be in a position where they trade the Dallas Mavericks a haul, and are scared to their core on a nightly basis due to injury caution.
Anthony Davis’ massive contract is another reason for the LA Clippers to steer clear
The Dallas Mavericks have knocked off 25 games from their schedule. They are losing more than they are winning, and Anthony Davis’ missed games have been the constant excuse; he has only laced up 10 times this season.
In addition, Davis’ numbers seem average given who he is as a former superstar and what he has accomplished in the NBA. He has posted 19.6 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per contest.
The last time he averaged 1.6 blocks was in 2020-21 for the Los Angeles Lakers, and the last time he averaged less than 20 points, Davis was a rookie forward just out of Kentucky for the New Orleans Hornets in 2012-13.
Moreover, Davis’ fully guaranteed contract is the biggest red flag the Clippers have been signaled with. He has two more seasons under contract, totaling a lucrative $112.5 million, and then a player option in 2027-28 of nearly $63 million.
Though Davis is a great talent and could be an all-star this season and in the future, it would be unreasonable for Lawrence Frank to add him to their spotless payroll.
That said, this season has been distinct, one of a kind for Davis. The Clippers desperately need a star, but there are clear reasons they do not want to get involved in talks for a veteran in a down season.