BREAKING NEWS: Lakers Target Daniel Gafford Still Trade Eligible After Signing Extension With Mavericks …….. veiw more
BREAKING NEWS: Lakers Target Daniel Gafford, Still Trade‑Eligible Despite Extension with Mavericks 
What Just Happened?
- Daniel Gafford, the 26-year-old center for the Dallas Mavericks, has just signed a 3-year extension worth approximately $60 million (reports vary between $54M–$60M), locking him in through the 2028–29 season
- Despite the new deal, multiple reports indicate he remains trade‑eligible, raising eyebrows across the NBA landscape—especially in Los Angeles.
Why the Lakers Are Still in Play
The timing couldn’t be more intriguing. L.A. has lingering issues in the frontcourt—especially after the midseason shakeup that sent Anthony Davis to Dallas for Luka Doncic. Rumors suggest that Daniel Gafford is on their radar:
- Costly Acquisition: Insider Jovan Buha notes that L.A. would likely need to “overpay” for Gafford, potentially offering Gabe Vincent, Dalton Knecht, and a first-round pick
- Fit for the Lakers: Analysts agree Gafford is a near-perfect fit—elite rim protection, high-field-goal efficiency (~70%), rebounder, athletic interior presence .
Mavericks’ Strategy and Gafford’s Future
- Dallas’ frontcourt is now crowded: Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, P.J. Washington, and soon Cooper Flagg (2025 No. 1 pick). This logjam reportedly makes Gafford more tradable than before
- However, some insiders warn the Mavericks won’t trade him easily—only for a top-tier perimeter defender like Herb Jones, or a true upgrade on the wing .
- Gafford himself reportedly denied pushing for ‘starter money’ or actively seeking a move, calling trade rumors “false” and potentially disruptive
Trade Package Scenarios
Several mock offers have surfaced illustrating what the Lakers might send:
| Lakers Send | Mavericks Receive |
|---|---|
| Gabe Vincent, Jaxson Hayes, two 2nd‑rounders | Gafford |
| Davion Mitchell (via third team), Jaxson Hayes, 2029 1st‑round pick | Gafford (in 3‑team trade) |
| Gabe Vincent, Dalton Knecht, future 1st pick | Gafford |
Expect Dallas to drive a hard bargain, especially with their backlog of bigs.
Why Gafford Matters to the Lakers
- Rim Protection & Defense: Gafford averages ~1.6 blocks in ~21 minutes and softens the paint—essential for a post-Davis Lakers defense
- Efficiency: Career FG% leader (~71%) and consistent finisher, particularly in pick-and-rolls alongside playmakers .
- Chemistry Potential: Familiarity with Luka (in Dallas) and pairing with AD may create a strong defensive duo.
What’s Next?
- Dallas decision-makers must weigh the benefits of keeping Gafford as salary flexibility tightens—especially if Flagg and Davis both need minutes.
- Lakers front office, led by Rob Pelinka, might decide to double down on bigs—maybe eyeing both Gafford and Nic Claxton.
- Public statements: Gafford said he’s content in Dallas, pushing back against speculation—though front offices rarely comment publicly on trade intentions.
Final Take
Even after signing an extension, Daniel Gafford remains tantalizing trade bait due to Dallas’ depth and Lakers’ need for an inside anchor. Whether L.A. makes a serious push—and what Dallas will accept—are the next big questions as the NBA offseason ramps up.
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