The New York Knicks are keeping an eye on the trade market as the deadline approaches, and one area of focus appears to be adding depth at the center position. But one potential target - Dallas Mavericks big man Daniel Gafford - might not be as gettable as initially believed.
According to reporting from SNY’s Ian Begley, the Knicks have shown interest in Gafford, a player whose athleticism, rim protection, and interior presence have made him a valuable piece across multiple stops in his NBA career. But there’s a catch: the Mavericks are still firmly in the playoff mix out West, and that’s making them hesitant to part ways with a key rotation player.
“I thought he would be available... it seems like they want to compete, so if that's the case, Gafford won't be available,” Begley noted.
And that makes sense. Gafford is now in his third season with Dallas and is posting solid numbers - 11.4 points, 6.7 boards, and 1.8 blocks per game.
He’s not just a stat-line guy, either. His impact goes beyond the box score.
He brings vertical spacing on offense, toughness in the paint, and a shot-blocking presence that alters game plans. Those are the kind of tools contending teams don’t give up easily - especially when the West is as wide open as it is this season.
Gafford’s journey through the league has taken him from Chicago to Washington and now to Dallas, and at each stop, he’s carved out a role as a dependable interior anchor. That’s exactly the kind of skill set the Knicks could use off the bench or in certain matchups, particularly as they look to bolster their frontcourt depth behind Mitchell Robinson and Isaiah Hartenstein.
New York has gotten off to a strong start this season, and the buzz around the league is that they’re just one smart roster addition away from making serious noise in the playoffs. With a solid core already in place and a defensive identity that travels well in the postseason, adding another big man who can protect the rim and finish lobs could be the final piece of the puzzle.
If Gafford does become available - and that’s still a big “if” - expect the Knicks to be in the conversation. They’ve got the assets, the motivation, and the need. But for now, it looks like Gafford is staying put in Dallas, helping the Mavs stay competitive in a crowded Western Conference playoff race.
Still, the trade deadline always has a few surprises, and the Knicks will be watching closely.