Dallas Mavericks and center Daniel Gafford have reportedly agreed on a three-year, $54.7 million extension that will keep him with the team through the summer of 2029.
This extension, first reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, adds three years to the $14.4 million left on Gafford’s current deal, bringing the total contract value close to $60 million.
While it’s a significant payday for a backup center, Gafford is no ordinary backup. The 25-year-old averaged 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks last season, while starting 31 games for Dallas.
He is known for his strong defensive presence and ability to score efficiently around the rim, boasting a 70.2% field goal percentage last season. However, his lack of perimeter shooting (he hasn’t attempted a three-pointer in three seasons) means he remains largely confined to the restricted area.
Despite the extension, Gafford remains a potential trade candidate. Teams in need of a reliable center, such as the Los Angeles Lakers, have been linked to him in trade rumors.
A potential move to Los Angeles, where Gafford could reunite with Luka Dončić, remains possible, but the Mavericks would demand a hefty return. This contract extension, once finalized after July 6, would not block any trade discussions but certainly raises his trade value.
The Mavericks are building a competitive frontcourt with the addition of Gafford, alongside Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, P.J. Washington, and newly drafted Cooper Flagg. It will be interesting to see if Gafford remains in Dallas for the long term or if he’s eventually dealt as part of the team’s broader roster-building strategy.
