The NBA trade deadline is fast approaching, and while the Dallas Mavericks might not be making the blockbuster move some fans were hoping for, there’s still activity bubbling beneath the surface. One name to watch? Daniel Gafford.
According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, Gafford is currently the Maverick most likely to be moved before the February 5 deadline. That’s not to say a deal is imminent-MacMahon didn’t dive into the specifics of potential suitors or what kind of return Dallas might be looking for-but the writing on the wall suggests Gafford is firmly in the “available” category.
Gafford’s name has been floating around in trade conversations since he signed his extension in July. That deal came in just under the threshold that would’ve made him ineligible to be traded this season, a move that now looks calculated in hindsight.
But a nagging right ankle injury-first sustained during training camp and re-aggravated multiple times-has slowed both his play and his trade buzz. Recently, there’s been more chatter about players like Naji Marshall potentially being moved, as Gafford’s inconsistent availability has made it harder to gauge his market.
Still, Gafford’s skill set is one that holds value around the league. Even in a down year, there are teams in the East that could use a physical rim protector and energy big-think Boston, Atlanta, or Toronto.
But the return Dallas could expect for him now is likely a far cry from what they might’ve commanded earlier in the season. Ideally, the Mavs would like to get back either a young player on an expiring contract or some draft capital.
Realistically, they may have to settle for one or the other.
The upside with Gafford is still there. At 27, he’s right in the heart of his prime.
When healthy, he’s a force around the rim-blocking shots, finishing lobs, and bringing that spark off the bench or even in spot starts. Mavs fans remember well how he helped anchor the paint during Dallas’ run to the 2024 NBA Finals after arriving midseason from Washington.
His energy, hustle, and physicality were infectious, and he quickly became a fan favorite.
But the Mavericks are facing some tough roster decisions. With Dereck Lively II expected to return next season and the possibility-however slim-that Anthony Davis remains on the roster, Dallas is staring down a bit of a frontcourt logjam. Moving Gafford now could free up minutes, clear some salary, and provide a bit more roster flexibility heading into the offseason.
There’s no guarantee Gafford gets moved. His health remains a key variable, and the right deal has to be there.
But the fact that he’s being mentioned as Dallas’ most likely trade chip says something about where the front office is leaning. They’re not blowing things up, but they’re keeping their options open-and Gafford might be the piece that helps them retool on the fly.
For fans who’ve grown attached to Gafford’s energy and presence in the paint, this might be a tough pill to swallow. But this is the business side of the league. If the right offer comes across the table, Dallas will have to think long and hard about pulling the trigger.