The Dallas Mavericks have confirmed that Daniel Gafford will miss Friday night's clash against the Portland Trail Blazers. Initially listed as questionable for Wednesday’s 142-135 loss to the Denver Nuggets, Gafford's status has now been downgraded to out. This comes after he suffered a right shoulder sprain during Monday’s overtime battle with the Golden State Warriors.
Gafford has been a key contributor for Dallas this season, averaging 9.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks across 51 games. Since the All-Star break, he's stepped up his game, posting 13.6 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.5 assists over his last 13 outings. Before his recent injury, he was on fire, scoring 20 points on a perfect 8-of-8 shooting, alongside seven rebounds and five assists.
With Gafford sidelined, Marvin Bagley III and Dwight Powell are expected to see increased playing time. Powell, who started in Denver, managed seven points and four rebounds in 16 minutes.
Meanwhile, the Mavericks might continue experimenting with P.J. Washington as a small-ball center, a strategy they've used to enhance speed and floor spacing.
This approach could be adjusted if Dallas decides to counter Portland's size, especially against Donovan Clingan, with a bigger lineup featuring Bagley or Powell.
In some good news, Cooper Flagg, who left Wednesday’s game with his right hand wrapped after a hard fall, isn’t on the injury report. Flagg, who finished the game, assured fans postgame that he’s managing well despite the physical toll of back-to-back overtime games.
Brandon Williams, returning from a three-game absence due to concussion protocol, contributed 11 points and six assists in 19 minutes against Denver. P.J. Washington highlighted Williams' impact, praising his pace and ability to drive the offense.
“His pace,” Washington noted. “We missed his quickness and ability to attack and create opportunities. He was himself tonight, and it’s great to have him back.”
Moussa Cissé and John Poulakidas are doubtful due to their G League two-way contracts, while Tyler Smith is probable. Smith made a brief but effective appearance against Denver, scoring eight points in under eight minutes.
Kyrie Irving (left knee surgery), Dereck Lively II (right foot surgery), and Caleb Martin (right plantar fascia strain) remain out. Martin, who has averaged 3.9 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 58 games, was also moved from questionable to out for Friday’s matchup.
The Mavericks will tip off against the Trail Blazers at 9 p.m. CT at the Moda Center.