Mavericks Reward Daniel Gafford With $60M Extension Amid Offseason Rebuild

Akash Vaishnav

Last updated: June 24, 2025

2 min read

Mavericks protect paint with Gafford deal

Image Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The Dallas Mavericks are reportedly making their first move of the season for their roster. However, it isn’t a trade deal, but an extension for a key piece in the roster. An NBA Insider has revealed that the Mavericks are all set to lock their defense.

Daniel Gafford, acquired from the Washington Wizards during the 2023-24 season, has emerged as a crucial frontcourt piece for Dallas. He has had an instant impact for the side which dominated the first half of the season.

The second half of the season was marred by injuries, disrupting the Mavericks’ momentum. The fallout from the Luka Doncic trade continued to loom large over the Mavericks’ campaign. However, despite all of that, Daniel Gafford maintained consistency and is now reportedly rewarded with an extension deal.

Centers are at a premium in this league right now. And the Mavericks have the deepest center rotation in the NBA (if you consider AD as part of it, which I do). $18 million per year for Gafford is a very good deal for both sides, and with no trade restriction his value holds.
— Jeffrey Cooperstein (@Jeff_Coop27) June 24, 2025

According to Shams Charania, the 26-year-old will sign a three years extension deal with the Mavericks worth nearly $60 million. With the injuries to Anthony Davis, securing Gafford became an important task for the Dallas Mavericks’ front office.

Gafford remained a reliable force even as injuries piled up late in the season, delivering consistent performances on both ends. In March 2024, the center connected on 33 consecutive field goals, helping him finish as the league’s field goal percentage leader.

Mavericks Locks Gafford Amid Rising Demand

Gafford earned contract buzz after drawing interest from multiple teams seeking frontcourt reinforcement. Having a big center is one of the most important traits for a modern NBA side. The 26-year-old has also shown fine numbers in comparison to his Washington Wizards time.

Gafford averaged 11.9 points and 6.8 rebounds for the Dallas side so far. Major changes are also expected for the Mavericks. The franchise holds the No. 1 draft pick and is widely expected to pursue breakout sensation Cooper Flagg.

With stars set to return and key offseason moves underway, the Mavericks are positioning themselves as early title favorites for next season.

Dallas Mavericks

Daniel Gafford

Akash Vaishnav

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I cover NBA at the Playoffs. I specialize in covering breaking news, Previews, in in-depth analysis (breaking down numbers, complex stats, nuances of the game, and converting them into reader-friendly content). Furthermore, I got into the sports media while looking for an entry into the media industry. I love International Relations, and since entry without majoring in the subject was difficult, I got into sports. Now, while majoring in International Relations on one side, I also like covering sports as part of the journey as a young Journalist.