The New Orleans Pelicans could opt to “shut down” Anthony Davis to an extent if they fail to trade him by Thursday's deadline of 3 p.m. ET, according to Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports. This could start taking place after the All-Star break, as the front office is well aware that positioning for a good draft selection could be more vital than a pointless push for the playoffs without their star player in for the long haul.

Davis is recovering from a finger injury and had intentions to play against the Indiana Pacers, but was kept from getting back on the floor by the front office.

The Pelicans star has been involved in trade talks for the better part of the last two weeks since his trade request went public, mostly involving the Los Angeles Lakers recently.

“My intentions are to play,” Davis said last weekend. “I’ve been working to get my finger back 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.”

Head coach Alvin Gentry was asked of his star's absence, but wouldn't specify as to why the decision was made.

“I don’t make those decisions,” Gentry told the media. “I was told he’s been cleared to practice. That’s what I know.”

Davis could be dealt within the next few days, but talk surrounding the Pelicans' front office is that they're willing to wait until the summer, when the Boston Celtics can get into the race and up the ante that much more in the Davis sweepstakes.