BREAKING NEWS: Anthony Davis, a starter for the Dallas Mavericks, has agreed to pay $40 million to….. view more

On February 2, 2025, the Mavericks acquired Davis from the Los Angeles Lakers in a blockbuster three-team trade that also involved the Utah Jazz. Dallas sent Luka Dončić, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris to L.A., along with draft assets

• To help Dallas clear salary-space and stay under the luxury-tax threshold, Davis voluntarily waived his $6 million trade kicker—a bonus players often receive when traded  This was a team-oriented sacrifice, not a personal payment.
• Davis debuted with Dallas on February 8, putting up 26 points, 16 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 blocks, as the Mavericks beat the Rockets 116–105 .
• However, he then suffered an adductor strain, leaving his status uncertain. As of mid-February, the Mavericks have been cautious, exploring non-surgical recovery with no set return timetable

✅ Key Facts at a Glance

• Trade Details: Davis (plus Max Christie and a future first-round pick) came to Dallas; Dončić and others went to L.A.
• Financial Move: Davis willingly forfeited a $6 million bonus—not a personal payout—helping Dallas’s cap flexibility
• On-Court Debut: Stellar first game, followed by injury concerns

📌 The Correct Takeaway

• No $40 million payment by Davis. He only gave up a $6 million bonus—an internal salary move, not a transfer of personal wealth.
• He remains under contract with Dallas and is actively a starter when healthy.
• Any claims of a massive “personal settlement” or “side-payment” are entirely unsubstantiated.