Anthony Davis Expected to Stay with Wizards as Rich Paul Addresses Trade Speculation

Rich Paul Says Anthony Davis Will Begin the Season in Washington

Trade speculation surrounding Anthony Davis has been a consistent storyline throughout the Washington Wizards offseason, but his agent has made one thing clear: Davis is expected to remain in Washington.

During an episode of the Game Over podcast hosted by Max Kellerman, Rich Paul was asked directly whether Davis would begin the 2026-27 NBA season with the Wizards.

His response was straightforward.

“Yes.”

When asked why Davis would remain with Washington, Paul replied, “Why wouldn’t he?” before adding that he was unaware of any trade discussions involving his client.

The comments offer the strongest public indication yet that Davis is expected to stay with the Wizards despite offseason rumors linking him to other contenders.

Why Were the Warriors Linked to Anthony Davis?

One of the most prominent rumors this offseason connected Davis with the Golden State Warriors.

Reports suggested Golden State had interest in acquiring the veteran big man as the franchise searched for another championship-caliber frontcourt presence.

However, Washington has consistently indicated that Davis is not available, signaling that the organization views him as a key part of its immediate plans rather than a trade asset.

Paul’s latest comments further reinforce that position.

Wizards’ Offseason Signals a Shift Toward Competing

Washington’s 2026 offseason has reflected a franchise moving beyond a traditional rebuild.

The organization has generated headlines by:

• Selecting A. J. Dybantsa, whose professional debut has become one of the biggest attractions of NBA Summer League.
• Acquiring veteran center Deandre Ayton to strengthen the frontcourt.
• Bringing back Khris Middleton.
• Reuniting with Hall of Famer Patrick Ewing, who returns to Washington’s coaching staff after previously beginning his NBA coaching career with the franchise.

Keeping Davis fits the broader direction of building a roster capable of competing rather than continuing to accumulate future assets.

Rich Paul’s Comments Leave Little Room for Immediate Trade Expectations

Although Paul’s answer was brief, it directly addressed the growing speculation surrounding Davis’ future.

Rather than hinting at a potential move, the veteran agent dismissed the notion that a trade was imminent and stated he had no knowledge of any negotiations involving his client.

While offseason rumors are common across the NBA, Paul’s public position suggests there is currently no expectation that Davis will be moved before training camp.

As Davis’ longtime representative, his comments naturally carry significant weight around the league.

What Anthony Davis Means to Washington

Keeping Davis provides Washington with one of the NBA’s most accomplished frontcourt players.

When healthy, Davis remains one of basketball’s premier two-way stars, capable of anchoring a defense while providing elite scoring, rebounding, and rim protection.

His presence also creates a valuable veteran foundation alongside the Wizards’ younger core, giving developing players an experienced leader as the franchise attempts to return to playoff contention.

Combined with the additions made this offseason, Davis projects to remain one of the focal points of Washington’s plans entering the 2026-27 campaign.

Could Trade Rumors Continue?

Despite Paul’s public comments, speculation is unlikely to disappear entirely.

Players of Davis’ caliber are frequently mentioned in trade discussions, particularly when championship contenders look to upgrade their rosters.

However, unless Washington’s competitive outlook changes dramatically or another team presents an overwhelming offer, there appears to be little indication that the Wizards are actively exploring a deal.

For now, every public statement from both the organization and Davis’ representation points toward the former NBA champion opening the season in Washington.

Key Takeaways

• Rich Paul says Anthony Davis is expected to begin the 2026-27 season with the Washington Wizards.
• Paul denied knowledge of any active trade discussions involving Davis.
• The Golden State Warriors were previously linked to Davis, but Washington has consistently indicated he is not available.
• The Wizards’ offseason additions, including Deandre Ayton, Khris Middleton, Patrick Ewing, and top prospect A.J. Dybantsa, signal a franchise focused on competing.
• Anthony Davis remains a central piece of Washington’s plans heading into the new NBA season.