Anthony Davis To Play This Season As Wizards Expect Timetable After All-Star Break

Anthony Davis is now expected to appear for the Washington Wizards this season, despite earlier reports suggesting the injured centre might be shut down. General manager Will Dawkins said on Sunday that Davis is projected to play, signalling that Washington still sees on-court value this year.

Dawkins’ update came only one day after reports indicated Washington was likely to end Davis’ season early because of injury concerns. The change in outlook reflects fresh internal discussions, with the franchise monitoring medical guidance before committing to a final stance.

The plan for AD right now is to go back to Dallas and finish his rehab,Dawkins said. During All-Star break, he takes another visit for a doctor. And that's a big appointment for us to kind of see where his progress is at. Washington expects that consultation, around the All-Star break, to clarify when Davis might safely rejoin competitive action.

Davis has been out since sustaining ligament damage in the left hand on January 8. Initial projections from medical staff set a six-week recovery window. Washington now plans to re-evaluate during the All-Star break to see whether that original timetable still holds or needs adjustment.

Washington acquired Davis from the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday in an eight-player trade. Before the injury, Davis averaged 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds and 1.65 blocks for Dallas. However, various injury issues restricted Davis to 20 games, limiting on-court rhythm and continuity with the Mavericks.

The Wizards entered Sunday at 14-37, level with the Brooklyn Nets for the second-worst record in the Eastern Conference. In that situation, any minutes from Davis could help evaluation of the roster. Washington’s medical staff will travel to Dallas to work alongside Davis and his physios, aiming for a managed and informed return.