The buzz around the Pelicans nest of late has been surrounding superstar Anthony Davis informing the team that he would like to be traded. He’s looking for a chance to win consistently and compete for a championship, after going to the playoffs twice in his 6.5 years in New Orleans. That news came out on Monday, so how is Davis feeling four days later.
“I’ve been fine,” he said after Friday’s practice. “I’ve been great.”
Davis has missed the Pels last 6 games as he is dealing with a finger injury, and says the plan for him is to be back in the line-up as soon as he can despite the trade request. He also claims that he has not given the franchise any list of preferred trade destinations.
“My intention is to play, said Davis. “I’ve been working to get my finger healthy. Obviously, it’s a tough situation, but my intention is to still play. And, when I’m able to play I plan on suiting up.”
It is very possible AD will not be around the team much longer. The NBA’s trade deadline is Thursday February 7th, but there is also no rush for New Orleans to get a deal done. Davis’ contract expires at the end of the 2020 season.
The Pelicans showed some promise last season as they made the playoffs and were able to sweep the Portland Trailblazers in the first round. Things came apart this year though as the team is currently 6 games below .500 and 5 games out of the 8th and final playoff seed in the Western Conference. Why did the 25-year-old All-Star pick now as his time to move on?
“I feel like it’s my time,” said Davis. “I gave this city, this organization, the fans, everything that I felt that I could. I don’t know how long I’m going to play this game. People’s careers are short and I felt like it was my time to move on.”