Daniel Gafford is getting 100% real in dealing with injury adversity

Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford recently returned from injury in the team’s 124-105 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. Gafford dealt with with persistent ankle injuries throughout the season, missing several games. In his return to the Mavericks lineup, he played 20 minutes, scored 14 points and grabbed five rebounds.

The performance showcased Gafford’s frontcourt talent, leading to increased speculation about his availability at the trade deadline. It remains to be seen whether Gafford will remain with the Mavericks—who recently received a three-year, $54 million extension this offseason. He talked about the psychological toll his injuries took.

“Kind of a little bit of a brain drain when it comes to just trying to figure out a way around it. Sure there’s pain, but like I said, we got the job night in and night out. And, just trying to work through it is just…that’s going to help me in the long run, I’d say, because now it’s like the first time I’ve been dealing with that” all season.”

Gafford added, “So I’m learning a lot of things where it’s just, you know, taking care of my body more, being consistent in trying to find ways to be ready. The next game is coming.”

Despite Cooper Flagg’s brilliant rookie campaign, the Mavericks are 21-38. They are the 12th seed in the Western Conference, two spots out of a playoff spot. Recently, the Mavericks made significant moves, trading D’Angelo Russell and Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards in what can be labeled a reset of the organization around their new star.

The 27-year-old Gafford makes that future. He is currently averaging 8.2 points and 6.4 rebounds per game on a 63.2% field goal percentage. He could remain with Dallas as a consistent option at center, or his negotiable contract could be moved to add more depth to the team around Flagg. But Gafford’s availability certainly contributes to the Mavericks’ winning efficiency.

The Mavericks return to action on Sunday, hosting the Oklahoma City Thunder. The match starts at 20:00