Dallas, TX – The Dallas Mavericks have made a resounding statement regarding their future, reportedly agreeing to a lucrative three-year, nearly $60 million contract extension with dynamic center Daniel Gafford. The impending deal, first reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania and widely corroborated, signals the Mavericks’ unwavering commitment to building a formidable and versatile frontcourt, poised for deep playoff runs for years to come. While the official signing won’t occur until the NBA’s free agency window opens on July 6th, the handshake agreement sends a clear message across the league: the Mavericks are investing heavily in their core.
This significant extension keeps Gafford in Dallas through the 2028-29 season, adding three years to his existing contract which was set to expire after the 2025-26 campaign. For a player who was acquired from the Washington Wizards and quickly became an indispensable piece of the Mavericks’ puzzle, this commitment is well-deserved. Gafford’s impact has been immediate and undeniable, providing an elite level of rim protection, efficient finishing around the basket, and a constant lob threat that perfectly complements the Mavericks’ star-studded backcourt.
In his first full season with the Mavericks, Gafford showcased why he’s considered one of the league’s most effective traditional bigs. Despite battling a knee injury that limited him to 57 games (31 starts) in the 2024-25 season, he still managed to average an impressive 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game. His remarkable 70.2% field goal percentage speaks volumes about his efficiency and intelligent shot selection, primarily operating in the restricted area, where he remains a terror for opposing defenses.
The move to lock up Gafford is particularly shrewd when viewed through the lens of Dallas’ broader roster strategy. With All-NBA big man Anthony Davis already a cornerstone and the Mavericks widely expected to select phenom Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, the frontcourt is quickly becoming a strength. Gafford’s ability to play the center position at a high level allows Davis to often slide into his preferred power forward role, maximizing his impact on both ends of the floor. Furthermore, the burgeoning talent of second-year center Dereck Lively II provides the Mavericks with enviable depth, ensuring that their interior presence remains stout regardless of rotations or unforeseen circumstances.
Sources close to the negotiations indicate the deal, while substantial, is structured in a way that provides the Mavericks with continued flexibility. Early reports suggest the contract is extend-and-trade friendly, meaning Gafford could theoretically still be moved if a truly game-changing opportunity arises, although the asking price would undoubtedly be steep. However, the prevailing sentiment is that this extension signifies a long-term vision, solidifying a foundational piece in a frontcourt that promises to be a force in the Western Conference.
As the NBA offseason heats up, the Daniel Gafford extension serves as a major signal of intent from the Dallas Mavericks. They are not merely content with being a playoff contender; they are actively building a roster designed for sustained success. By securing a high-impact, efficient center like Gafford, the Mavericks are fortifying their foundation, creating a balanced attack that can withstand the rigors of a demanding NBA season and the intensity of the postseason. This $60 million investment isn’t just about Daniel Gafford; it’s about the Dallas Mavericks’ championship aspirations, firmly rooted in a powerful and versatile frontcourt.
