Mavericks Reportedly Not Planning to Trade Daniel Gafford Despite Slow Start

Despite the Dallas Mavericks' disappointing 3-7 start to the season, reports indicate the team currently has no plans to trade center Daniel Gafford. This stance is influenced by third-year center Dereck Lively III's limited availability, having played only three games this season due to injury and 36 games last season. Gafford, who signed a three-year, $54.4 million contract extension this past offseason, is considered a stable presence. However, league sources suggest that if the Mavericks' struggles persist beyond Christmas, the team might re-evaluate its strategy, potentially making Gafford available as they consider future draft options, though this decision is not yet close to being made.