As the Dallas Mavericks enter a critical offseason, center Daniel Gafford has emerged as a potential trade candidate if he and the front office fail to reach terms on a contract extension.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Gafford’s name is “one to monitor” as Dallas evaluates its roster following a turbulent 2024–25 campaign that ended in a play-in loss to Memphis.
The 26-year-old is entering the final season of a three-year, $40 million contract signed in 2022, and is expected to seek a raise.
Gafford averaged 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks in 21.5 minutes per game this year while shooting 70.2% from the field.
With Anthony Davis already on a max deal and second-year center Dereck Lively II expected to be extension-eligible in 2026, the Mavericks are navigating a tight financial situation at the position.
Dallas acquired Gafford from Washington ahead of the 2024 trade deadline to reinforce its frontcourt but struggled with continuity down the stretch due to multiple injuries, including a season-ending ACL tear to Kyrie Irving and an extended absence for Davis.
The team finished 39–43, clinching the final play-in spot in the West, before being eliminated by the Grizzlies.
Following the high-profile midseason trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers for Davis, fan sentiment turned sharply against general manager Nico Harrison, whose moves were widely criticized as reckless.
Despite the chaos, Gafford was one of the few consistent interior presences, starting 31 of his 57 appearances and serving as a key rim protector.
If Dallas and Gafford are unable to find common ground on an extension this summer, the franchise could explore trade options rather than risk losing him for nothing in 2026 free agency.
Given his age, production, and contract status, Gafford could draw interest from several teams in need of an athletic big man on a manageable deal.
The Mavericks, who unexpectedly won the 2025 NBA Draft lottery despite missing the playoffs, are positioned to reshape their roster around young talent and could use Gafford as a trade asset if a long-term agreement cannot be reached.
