The Dallas Mavericks want to move on to new beginnings. Owner Patrick Dumont led this change with the firing of Nico Harrison. But there’s more business to be done. Notably, reports claim the Mavs will sit down with Anthony Davis and his camp to ponder an in-season trade. The team needs a shake-up.

However, Davis’ large contract and injury issues complicate trades with any team. Still, there are some franchises that could immensely improve with the Brow on their roster. Here are five teams that could chase AD and give the Mavericks a fair return.

Sacramento Kings

The Kings have had a mediocre season up to this point. They have won just 3 of their 14 games. Furthermore, rumors are swirling about them thinking about a rebuild. But what if they could salvage this situation? A package of Zach LaVine, Keon Ellis, and some draft picks could be enough to get Anthony Davis to Sacramento.

The team is longing for a defensive anchor. They are allowing opponents to score the third most points, at 124.4 per game. Additionally, they don’t have an elite shot blocker. Anthony Davis could make an immediate impact. He is one guy who can organize an entire defense all by himself. Coupled with Domantas Sabonis’ playmaking acumen, they could form a formidable duo, even allowing AD to operate as a power forward. But it depends on the franchise’s vision.

If rebuilding is the goal, then it won’t just be LaVine who gets traded. With Anthony Davis, they have a shot at remaining competitive with DeMar DeRozan and Sabonis still operating at a high level offensively.

Chicago Bulls

There’s no place like home. While Anthony Davis doesn’t have a no-trade clause to force his way to the Bulls, they can make the pitch. The Mavericks need an off-the-dribble scoring threat. The Bulls, who are heavy on the backcourt, could part ways with Coby White and an aging Nikola Vucevic to make the trade happen.

For Anthony Davis, it’s a chance to represent his hometown and play meaningful basketball. Josh Giddey has evolved into a three-way threat on the floor. He currently ranks fourth in assists without a bona fide lob threat. Anthony Davis could fill in that hole while also being a defensive pillar for the young Bulls team. Their defense needs work, and a healthy AD is capable of doing so.

New Orleans Pelicans

This one would be a risk. The Pelicans’ ace, Zion Williamson, is susceptible to injuries, despite undergoing a physical transformation. However, if it works out, they could create a formidable lineup. Jordan Poole and Kevon Looney, along with draft compensation, which at this point is necessary for any time going to Anthony Davis’ massive contract, could help facilitate a deal.

This is all about sticking to an identity that Nico Harrison envisioned. Trey Murphy and Herb Jones are genuine 3-and-D stars. Once Dejounte Murray returns, the Pelicans have a solid perimeter defense. Adding Anthony Davis to the mix would cover all the bases. The only issue is his injury history. Having two injury-prone stars as the leaders could very easily backfire. On the flip side, the Pelicans could have one of the deadliest inside scoring duos surrounded by shooting threats.

Portland Trail Blazers

Despite being embroiled in controversy, the Trail Blazers have shown incredible resilience this season. With Jrue Holiday turning back time, their team has established solid defensive principles. Furthermore, players like Shaedon Sharpe and Deni Avdija have taken a scoring leap this season. They have been a surprise team this season, and Anthony Davis could be a huge acquisition for the future.

See, Damian Lillard’s return next season bolsters the Blazers’ offense further. At this point, the team could think about trading Jerami Grant and Robert Williams or a similar package to get a piece that completes their team. AD becomes the rim protector, while Jrue Holiday leads the perimeter defense. Additionally, with young centers like Donovan Clingan and Yan Hangsen, AD could prove to be a great mentor.

They are 6-8 this season, largely due to their defensive inefficiencies. Getting AD would be a big commitment. But having a veteran core of Lillard, Holiday, and AD alongside promising youngsters can create a team that can compete now without compromising their future.

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors’ young nucleus is taking off this season. Scottie Barnes is showcasing his versatility. Brandon Ingram and Immanuel Quickley control the scoring department. The team, powered by its youth, plays with great energy and pace. In a weakened East, this might be their best chance to make a playoff push. And Anthony Davis could prove to be the difference.

The Raptors have the 12th-best defensive rating. However, they are struggling on the glass, averaging just 42.5 rebounds per game. At 6’10, Anthony Davis is averaging 10.2 rebounds this season. He creates second chance opportunities, and is a greater scoring threat in comparison to Jakob Poelt. But for the Raptors to make this happen, they will have to part ways with one of their core players. An RJ Barrett or Quickley will have to be attached to match salaries.

Where else do you think AD could make a winning impact? Let us know your views in the comments below.