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Mavericks Shopping a Shocking Trade Target for the Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers are entering a high-stakes season with the goal of optimizing their roster around superstar Luka Doncic, recently acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Dallas Mavericks. Amid this context, a new trade rumor is electrifying Lakers fans: the Mavericks are reportedly considering “shopping” center Daniel Gafford, a player deemed a “dream” target to bolster the Lakers’ frontcourt.

Daniel Gafford – The Perfect Fit for the Lakers

Daniel Gafford, the 26-year-old center, has proven his value in a Mavericks uniform, particularly during their run to the 2024 NBA Finals. Standing at 6’10”, Gafford is an ideal pick-and-roll big man, excelling at cutting to the basket for lob finishes and protecting the rim. In the 2024-25 season, he averaged 12.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, shooting an impressive 69.9% from the field.

The pairing of Gafford and Luka Doncic in Dallas was a major highlight. Doncic’s elite ball-handling and playmaking turned Gafford into a constant threat in the paint. During the 2024 playoffs, Gafford started all 22 games for the Mavericks, averaging 9.0 points and 5.2 rebounds while showcasing defensive reliability. Reuniting this duo in Los Angeles could instantly recreate their chemistry, addressing the Lakers’ need for a quality center.

Why Are the Mavericks Open to Trading Gafford?

The Mavericks are currently navigating a crowded frontcourt situation. After acquiring Anthony Davis in the trade with the Lakers, Dallas now boasts a deep frontline featuring Davis, Dereck Lively II, Dwight Powell, P.J. Washington, and Gafford. With Lively II viewed as the team’s future and Davis as a cornerstone star, Gafford has become a tradable asset to address other roster needs, particularly at the guard position with Kyrie Irving sidelined by injury.

Gafford’s contract, with a salary of $13.4 million for the 2024-25 season and $14.3 million for 2025-26, is considered reasonable for a starting or high-level backup center. However, with Gafford entering the final year of his deal and potentially seeking a larger contract as a “starting-caliber center,” the Mavericks may look to capitalize on his trade value before he hits free agency in the summer of 2026.

What Would It Take for the Lakers to Land Gafford?

To acquire Gafford, the Lakers would need to present an enticing trade package. Sources suggest the Mavericks might be interested in a defensive-minded wing like Jarred Vanderbilt or Gabe Vincent, paired with additional assets such as the contracts of Maxi Kleber, Shake Milton, or Jordan Goodwin, plus draft picks. One proposed scenario involves the Lakers sending Vanderbilt ($10.7 million salary) and a first-round pick in exchange for Gafford.

However, some believe the Lakers may need to offer more, potentially parting with young talent like Dalton Knecht to seal the deal. While this would be a significant risk, adding Gafford could provide long-term stability at the center position, especially with Jaxson Hayes failing to meet expectations as a starting center.

Risks and Outlook

While Gafford is an appealing target, the trade carries risks. A recent knee injury, which could sideline Gafford for the remainder of the 2024-25 season, raises concerns. The Lakers would need to thoroughly evaluate his health before finalizing any deal. If Gafford returns to peak form, he could be the ideal piece to help the Lakers build a championship-contending roster alongside Doncic and LeBron James.

The feasibility of the trade also hinges on the relationship between the two teams. After the Luka Doncic trade, Mavericks GM Nico Harrison may be hesitant to further “aid” the Lakers. However, with both sides facing urgent needs—the Lakers for a center, the Mavericks for guards and draft assets—a mutually beneficial deal is not out of the question.

Conclusion

The Mavericks’ willingness to explore a Daniel Gafford trade presents a golden opportunity for the Lakers to address their weakness at center. With Gafford’s established chemistry with Doncic and his efficient offense and defense, he could be a pivotal factor in bringing the Lakers closer to a championship. However, the Lakers must carefully weigh Gafford’s value against the cost, particularly given his uncertain health status. Lakers fans will undoubtedly keep a close eye on this potential blockbuster trade as the 2025 offseason approaches.