Mavericks' Anthony Davis (hand) sidelined, may need surgery

Field Level Media|published: Fri 9th January, 20:16 2026

Jan 8, 2026; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis (3) goes to the basket against Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen (23) during the first quarter at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images

Dallas Mavericks star big man Anthony Davis might be facing season-ending left hand surgery after being injured in Thursday night's game against the Utah Jazz, ESPN reported on Friday.

The Mavericks confirmed that Davis underwent an MRI exam on Friday that displayed ligament damage in the hand. The club said Davis is currently seeking multiple opinions.

Dallas didn't provide an injury timetable in its announcement. The team said it will release further updates when necessary.

ESPN reported Davis would miss at least six weeks if surgery is avoided.

Davis was injured with 2:52 left in the 116-114 loss while defending Utah star Lauri Markkanen on a drive to the basket. Davis was in obvious pain after the play and left the contest with 2:08 remaining after he was holding the hand and unable to defend Markkanen's next basket.

The timing of the injury could affect Dallas' trade plans. The club reportedly planned to shop Davis prior to the Feb. 5 trade deadline.

Davis hasn't even been with the Mavericks for a year yet. He came over in the controversial and disastrous deal in which star Luka Doncic was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Davis, who turns 33 in March, is making $54.1 million this season. He is due to make $58.5 million next season and has a player option for $62.8 million in 2027-28.

Davis has played in just 29 games for the Mavericks -- nine last season and 20 this season.

He is averaging 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds and 1.7 blocked shots this season. He is a 10-time All-Star.

--Field Level Media

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