Anthony Davis' Calf Injury Fuels Mavs Concern

Merlin sees the Mavericks' big man, Anthony Davis, showing signs of slowing before Dallas announced he’d miss time with a calf injury. Multiple scouts and coaches said he "didn't look as mobile as he normally does," yet Davis still averaged at least 22 points and 10 rebounds during a 1-3 start. He exited Oct. 29 with "left lower leg soreness," has missed three games, was listed doubtful for Memphis, and this follows a season last year when he played just nine games after the trade. Merlin senses a pattern: eye surgery, a heavier 268-pound training-camp weight, and limited summer work made conditioning a concern — Jason Kidd even hoped "playing 36 minutes last night will help with that conditioning." The Mavs are fragile at 2-6; Davis' availability will shape Dallas' defense, chemistry, and any chance to salvage the early season.