Mavericks' Anthony Davis trade sweepstakes just added a team no one saw coming

After the departure of Nico Harrison, questions began to surface about Anthony Davis' fate with the Dallas Mavericks. Trade rumors almost immediately began to surface, and according to ESPN's Shams Charania, multiple teams are suitors for Davis. These teams include the Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks, and Toronto Raptors.

Dallas is no stranger to making trades with Detroit, and they possess the necessary assets to facilitate a deal. The reality of Detroit being in the mix is something that should excite Mavs fans, as they have the assets to give them a potentially generous trade package. The Pistons could easily create a package centered around Jaden Ivey and Tobias Harris. Basically, they have youth, draft capital, and expiring contracts to make it work for both sides.

As for the Hawks, they, too, could make something work. Atlanta has the assets and the salary to compete with Detroit. One player who could be dealt in return is Kristaps Porzingis, a former Maverick. Porzingis could easily switch between the four and five spots, and he would help replace Davis' production if dealt. Plus, his expiring contract and ability to stretch the floor could work out for the Mavs.

Despite the rumored interest from the Pistons and Hawks, the Raptors may be the most intriguing team of all if they do make a strong run at Davis. No one even really speculated about them potentially going after the star big man, but it makes too much sense to ignore.

Raptors suddenly make sense as an Anthony Davis trade suitor

However, assuming Toronto decides to show real interest, what could they offer? Why might they be interested in Davis?

For starters, Toronto has taken a major leap this season. They hold the fifth-best record in the Eastern Conference and were recently one of eight teams to make the NBA Cup Knockout Round. Their improved success could easily be driven even further by putting Davis in the middle.

Their connection to Davis is a testament to the success they are having this season. They may believe that adding him could elevate them from mediocre status to top contenders in the East. Not to mention, pairing Davis next to Scottie Barnes would create a solid defensive punch down low.

Many fans immediately guessed teams like Pistons and even Chicago Bulls would pursue Davis, but not the Raptors. Despite a recent losing streak, no one expected for the Raptors to be a top team in the East this year, and Davis may be exactly who they need to become even more dangerous.

Davis' potential interest from teams speaks volumes to his hard work and dedication to the game. Some critics might question his game or believe he has underachieved, but his accolades and success show their disbelief is absolutely wrong. Davis is a one-time NBA champion and 10-time NBA All-Star. His ability to change the game is something that interests teams, and there's no question any team would be happy to add him to their roster at the right price.

So, with all the trade speculation surrounding Davis, the Mavs have a tough decision to make. Do they keep Davis and build upon their newfound success, or trade him and gear up for the future? Remember, Dallas has won four of their last five games and seems like a team on the rise. Their decision won't be an easy one.

The next couple of months will be interesting, as Anthony Davis trade rumors heat up even more. It'll be a matter of time before Dallas makes a decision on Davis and his fate with the franchise. The Mavs must decide if they want to tank to expedite their rebuild around Cooper Flagg or try to make the playoffs as a play-in team. Buckle up, Dallas fans, it's going to be a bumpy ride, and any potential Davis trade should make their direction clear.