An NBA insider reports the Hawks are drawing a firm line in Anthony Davis trade talks—resisting key assets as Atlanta weighs its next move ahead of the deadline.
Excerpt: The Hawks have interest in Anthony Davis, but an insider report says Atlanta is pushing back on including premium assets—an approach that may explain why talks haven’t gained real traction.
Hawks reportedly setting firm limits in Anthony Davis talks
With the NBA trade deadline approaching (Feb. 5), the Atlanta Hawks continue to be linked to Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis—but the latest intel suggests Atlanta’s front office is negotiating from a position of caution, not urgency.
According to NBA insider Michael Scotto (HoopsHype), the Hawks have resisted including 2024 No. 1 overall pick Zaccharie Risacher and have also been reluctant to include a 2026 unprotected first-round pick (via New Orleans) in discussions to this point.
That posture is notable because those are exactly the types of blue-chip assets teams typically demand in any deal for a top-tier star—especially one with Davis’ résumé.
Why Atlanta’s stance matters
If the Hawks are serious about upgrading their frontcourt with a player like Davis, the negotiation will likely come down to a familiar trade-market reality:
- Dallas will want premium upside (top picks, top prospects, or both).
- Atlanta appears unwilling—at least right now—to pay the highest possible price.
This aligns with other reporting indicating there has been “no meaningful traction” between the teams on a Davis-to-Atlanta concept recently.
The bigger domino: Trae Young’s future
Atlanta’s broader direction remains a key variable. Multiple reports indicate the Hawks have been evaluating major roster pathways, including situations involving Trae Young and a potential reset around emerging pieces.
If Atlanta ultimately decides to retool rather than push in, holding firm on prized assets like Risacher (and a potentially valuable unprotected pick) would be consistent with that strategy.
