What happened: Davis is seeking a four-year max extension worth $275 million per The Athletic. Washington is viewed as unlikely to commit to that figure because of injury history and age. Agent Rich Paul is assessing other teams’ interest with February’s trade deadline approaching.

Why it matters: A max commitment would lock Washington’s cap around an aging star entering the 2026-27 season. Keeping an elite two-way center on the floor is central to the Wizards’ plan to be more competitive. A standoff instead points toward a deadline-driven decision on direction and future assets.

What to watch: Watch whether Washington engages on term or value before opening night. Paul’s canvass of the market will set the February deadline landscape.