Daniel Gafford has signed a three-year extension with the Dallas Mavericks.
The Mavs secure their rim protector as Gafford has enters his third season with the team and eighth overall in the NBA. The 26-year-old center averaged 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.8 blocks across 57 games in the 2024-25 season. He shot an elite 70.2% from the field, second only to Jarrett Allen. Gafford holds the highest career field goal percentage in NBA history at 71.0% (min. 2,000 FGA).
Gafford’s impact on the Mavericks goes far beyond the numbers. His rim protection, vertical spacing, and energy in the paint are critical attributes to the Mavs defensive identity and offensive flow. Whether anchoring the defense, finishing lobs, or setting hard screens to free up the backcourt, Gafford’s presence is vital to the Mavericks’ success and long-term vision. His ability to thrive as a true center allows Anthony Davis, who has long preferred to play power forward, the ability to stretch the floor and cover all areas defensively.
In 2024-25, Gafford set a franchise record after recording his 23rd consecutive game with a block after 6 blocks against the Houston Rockets on Feb. 8. He also notched a career-best 16 straight games in double figures after scoring 17 points against the Chicago Bulls on Nov. 6. Against the Charlotte Hornets, he tallied a career-high 31 points (12-15 FG, 7-7 FT), 15 rebounds, three assists, a steal and seven blocks, becoming the fourth player in NBA history to record at least 30 points, 15 rebounds and 7 blocks on 80.0 FG% (Shaquille O’Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon, Benoit Benjamin).
