BREAKING NEWS: Dallas Mavericks reportedly reach three year, $54.7 million extension with Daniel Gafford Read more…

It is comfirmed that Dallas and center Daniel Gafford have agreed on a three-year extension, valued in the $54–60 million range. The deal reportedly carries a total value of around $60 million, though several outlets peg it closer to $54.7 million.

Contract timeline & structure

The extension reportedly locks Gafford up through the 2028–29 NBA season, following the final year of his current three-year, $40.2 million deal he originally signed with Washington in 2021.

Why Gafford is worth it

The 26-year-old has emerged as one of the NBA’s most efficient finishers. Since entering the league in 2019, he leads the NBA in career field‑goal percentage (71%), topping the charts in 2023‑24 at 72.5% ([reuters.com][2]). His per-game averages  approximately 9.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks  over 378 career games illustrate his consistent impact.

Since arriving in Dallas from Washington in February 2024, Gafford has played a foundational role in the Mavericks’ 2024 Finals run. Mavericks analytics site Mavs Moneyball described him as “a stabilizing force,” noting his interior presence on both ends of the court. Fans and analysts alike have hailed his finishing ability and rim protection as underrated assets.

Frontcourt fit and future outlook

The extension preserves a formidable frontcourt for Dallas: Gafford, 6’10″ Dereck Lively II, and newly acquired Anthony Davis form a versatile big-man core. With rookie Cooper Flagg expected to join via the No. 1 draft pick, Dallas is stacking size, efficiency, and rim protection.

While some fans speculated about Gafford’s desire for “starter money” amid contract-year buzz, Gafford publicly dispelled any negotiation drama, emphasizing that rumors were “false social‑media posts”  Instead, this extension signals mutual intent for stability.

What it means for the Mavericks

Cap certainty: Gafford’s deal locks in an affordable yet premium big-man, facilitating long-term roster planning around Davis and Lively.

Roster continuity: His presence ensures Dallas maintains interior size and defense without needing to chase in-season replacements.

Championship trajectory: With Gafford anchoring the frontcourt, Dallas retains a proven core capable of contending in the Western Conference.

Locking Gafford in for three more seasons at around  $54.7-60 million solidifies one of the NBA’s most efficient interior players and strengthens the Mavericks’ championship push. With his contract now secured, Dallas can focus on fine-tuning their frontcourt, developing Cooper Flagg, and building around their defensive and finishing pillars.