Mavericks finally learn why the Lakers felt fine abandoning Anthony Davis

Anthony Davis was baffled when the Los Angeles Lakers traded him to the Dallas Mavericks as part of the Luka Doncic trade. It didn't make sense why the Lakers would trade a player who played a pivotal role in helping them win the 2020 NBA Finals. However, it's obvious that his injury history became too problematic for Los Angeles, something the Mavericks are learning more by the day.

Davis' injury history is a story Lakers fans know all too well. After the 2020 championship season, he struggled to stay healthy. He missed significant time with the Lakers, as he only played in 132 games from 2021 through the 2023 season. For example, Davis missed 36 games during the 2020-21 season due to a calf strain, Achilles tendinosis, and an adductor strain.

Things got worse from there. Davis missed 42 games during the 2021-22 season due to a left knee sprain and an ankle sprain. Not to mention, he missed a month during the 2022-23 season because of a right foot injury. It was a problem Lakers fans grew tired of, and it ultimately led to Rob Pelinka getting rid of him.

Anthony Davis' biggest Lakers red flag is now haunting the Mavericks

Yet, Davis' time with the Lakers wasn't completely injury-riddled. His health improved during his final full season with Los Angeles, as he played in 76 games. Although the idea of him sustaining another serious injury became too much to bear. It was clear the Lakers couldn't risk him getting hurt again, so they shipped him off.

It's not a problem the Dallas Mavericks organization is learning the hard way.

Remember, Dallas acquired Davis under the leadership of former general manager Nico Harrison. He believed the big man was the missing defensive piece to their title chase. His belief was centered around the concept that "defense wins championships." The motto, though, didn't get a chance to prove itself, as Harrison was fired earlier this season and Davis has struggled to stay healthy.

Davis has played in 29 games since being traded. Last season, he suited up for nine games, as injuries have become the norm during Davis' time in Dallas.

He played exceptionally well in his first game for the Mavericks last season, dropping a double-double with 26 points and 16 rebounds. However, Davis' success didn't last long. The Mavs' big man suffered a left adductor strain in the game, and he would miss the next 18 games. It would become the first of many injuries for a player expected to make Dallas a contender in the West.

Basically, Davis' injury history has become extremely problematic, a situation similar to the one he experienced in Los Angeles. He has already missed 24 games this season, as Davis is currently out with a left hand injury.

It makes sense why, just like the Lakers, Dallas is trying to move on from Davis. They want to end the failed experiment, as the Mavericks are ready to begin a new era centered around Cooper Flagg. Plus, Davis has struggled to win fans over, as he'll always be connected to the Doncic trade.

So, sorry, Mavs fans, but Anthony Davis is now Dallas' problem until a move is made. The Lakers knew firsthand the headaches that his injuries constantly cause. It's why they were quick to move on from their NBA Finals centerpiece.

Now, the Dallas Mavericks are in the same boat, as they hope another team can pick up the mess Harrison left behind.