When the Dallas Mavericks traded for Daniel Gafford last month, no one knew exactly how much he would do in Dallas.
Gafford had a very dominant season with the Washington Wizards, especially defensively, but no one knew what his role would be in Dallas.
Mavs head coach Jason Kidd detailed the team's plans for Gafford early on, saying he would have a chance to start before the All-Star break if the team is not fully healthy. This was no surprise since Derek Lively II stood out as Dallas' starting mainstay, but Gafford was immediately given the starting role after Lively II missed Dallas' game against the Wizards on February 12th. was given the opportunity to.
Gafford had a great performance in his first game as a starter, recording 16 points, 17 rebounds, five blocks, and two steals. It quickly became clear that Kidd might have to make a difficult choice between Gafford and Lively II as his starting center.
And this is the best question. Two giants who can start. That hasn't happened in Dallas in a long time.
Lively II took back the starting spot after Gafford's second start, but Gafford has started the last three games. Lively II missed one of those games, but it looks like Gafford could be the starting center going forward.
Kidd starting Gafford was a move that initially shocked and angered some, but when you look at Gafford as a starter, the numbers don't lie.
Gafford started five games for the Mavs this season, averaging 15 points, 9.6 rebounds, 0.8 steals and 2.6 blocks per game while shooting 80.5 percent from the field. He's also quietly trailing Wilt Chamberlain's record of 35 consecutive field goals without a hit. Gafford currently has 28 consecutive no-make field goals, and if he continues to play efficiently down low, his record could be reached soon.
Gafford being the starter is not a disadvantage for Lively II, allowing Gafford to set the tone while seeing how the game is going before Lively II checks into the game. Lively II may be in foul trouble early on, but coming off the bench allows him to learn Gafford's back while also checking the referee's calls before stepping on the floor. .
Dallas' next game is tomorrow night at home against the Golden State Warriors.
Stay tuned for the latest on Jason Kidd, Daniel Gafford, Derek Lively II, and the Dallas Mavericks this season.
