Mavs Trade Rumor Links Dallas to Eastern Conference Center

The Dallas Mavericks are looking to make a couple of additions to their roster ahead of next month’s NBA trade deadline. The Mavs are currently in sixth place in the competitive Western Conference.

If the Mavericks can make an addition in the frontcourt, it could be the difference between having homecourt advantage for the first round or playing in the play-in tournament if they fall to the seventh seed.

It was reported earlier this week that Dallas is interested in Golden State Warriors small forward Andrew Wiggins. However, the Mavericks also have their eyes on a starting center that could be a solid addition to their center depth.

Mavericks Rumors: Dallas Shows Interest In Daniel Gafford

Matt Moore of The Action Network reported on Friday that Dallas is interested in Washington Wizards center Daniel Gafford as they would like one more available big. But the Mavericks aren’t the only team interested in Gafford, as the Rockets and Knicks are also in the mix.

Gafford is having a good season for the Wizards despite having the second-worst record in the Association (7-34). The 25-year-old center is averaging 10.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game. Gafford also has an ORtg (offensive rating) of 137 and a DRtg (defensive rating) of 116.

If Dallas were to acquire Gafford at the deadline, it would give them an experienced center with some offensive skills and protect the rim. 

Dallas’ starting center is rookie Dereck Lively II, who is averaging 8.9 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. However, they don’t have much behind Lively, as Dwight Powell is producing 4.6 points and 3.9 rebounds per game.

Meanwhile, the Mavericks are rolling with Derrick Jones Jr. and Grant Williams at the power forward spot. 

Gafford recently signed a three-year, $40 million contract with the Wizards in 2021 and is set to make $13.4M and $14.3M over the next two seasons. This season, he’s making $12.4M. If the Mavs want to acquire Gafford, they’ll need to attach a pick and player so it can be beneficial for the rebuilding Wizards.

If the Mavericks make those moves at the trade deadline, their odds of winning the NBA Finals and the West might shorten. Dallas is a long shot to win the NBA title at +3900 on FanDuel Sportsbook.

Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change

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