Anthony Davis dismissed reports suggesting he is unhappy about being traded to the Washington Wizards, calling such characterizations overblown during a Friday phone interview with The Athletic. The 32-year-old big man is meeting with ownership and front office officials to discuss the franchise’s championship blueprint.
Davis told The Athletic he appreciates what he has seen during his initial visit with the organization. The Wizards welcomed him warmly during meetings with governor Ted Leonsis, president Zach Leonsis, president of Monumental Basketball Michael Winger, general manager Will Dawkins and senior vice president John Thompson III.
“They said I said a lot of stuff in the other city, too, that I didn’t say,” Davis said.
Washington acquired Davis on Wednesday from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for four players and five draft picks. The deal also brought guards D’Angelo Russell, Jaden Hardy and Dante Exum to the Wizards.
A Sports Illustrated report from Chris Mannix suggested Davis “likely isn’t enthusiastic about joining the Wizards.” Mannix reinforced that sentiment on a Thursday podcast.
Davis disputed those claims and praised his experience so far.
“The visit’s been great,” he said. “They definitely welcomed me with open arms, spent some time with Ted and Zach. It’s totally different from what they make it seem. I know it’s like, oh, they have the stigma of they’re not a good team. I haven’t seen the practice facility yet, but the arena is top-notch, world-class for sure. Seen the chefs and how they take care of the families. It’s been great.”
The 10-time All-Star wants detailed discussions about how Washington plans to reach contender status. Davis has a player option for 2027-28 worth $62.7 million and is under contract for next season at $58.4 million.
“I need to talk with Will, Ted, Zach, and kind of figure out what the actual plan is, and then just kind of go from there,” Davis said. “I talked briefly (Friday) with Will. Obviously, at this time, every year, you want to compete for championships and stuff like that. That’s obviously the main focus, getting to that place. Conversations are going to be held to see about getting to that space. I’ve been everywhere the last two years. I want to see the plan, hear the plan, see the vision. Bringing Trae (Young) here and other things in store, what they’re thinking of doing, I want to have those conversations with them and see what happens. The city is obviously phenomenal.”
Davis seeks a second NBA championship after winning with the Lakers in 2020. He hoped Dallas would provide that opportunity after the Mavericks shocked the basketball world by trading Luka Doncic to Los Angeles for him last year.
Injuries derailed those plans. Davis played just 20 games this season after suffering a hand injury in mid-January. Kyrie Irving continues rehabilitating from a torn ACL suffered last March. Dereck Lively II is out for the season following December foot surgery.
Agent Rich Paul said he will speak with Dawkins extensively about long-term plans but won’t discuss extension talks immediately. Paul’s Klutch Sports Group maintains a partnership with Leonsis’ Monumental Sports and Entertainment.
“At this point in my career, I want to compete for a championship,” Davis said. “Whether that’s here or elsewhere, I have no idea. It’s been phenomenal, everything they’re saying. Everything they’re showing me is nothing short of phenomenal. Now it’s about having an actual conversation about the team.”