Daniel Gafford Set for Season Debut with Mavs on Saturday
Daniel Gafford is set to make his highly anticipated season debut with the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday. He will participate in the game against the Detroit Pistons in Mexico City.
Return from Injury
The 27-year-old center has been recovering from a right ankle sprain. This injury occurred on the first day of the Mavericks’ training camp in late September. Gafford landed on the foot of teammate Anthony Davis during one of the initial drills.
Initial Recovery Timeline
- Originally expected absence: 2-3 weeks
- Actual time out: Over one month
Despite the setbacks, Gafford expressed a positive outlook, stating, “It’s been a lot of ups and downs.” He emphasized the unpredictable nature of injuries, saying, “stuff happens.”
Current Game Status
As the Mavericks prepare for the match, Gafford is officially listed as questionable. He is not the only player facing injury concerns:
- D’Angelo Russell: Left knee contusion
- Dereck Lively II: Right knee sprain (misses third consecutive game)
- Anthony Davis: Calf strain
- Kyrie Irving: Recovery from ACL surgery
- Dante Exum: Right knee injury management
Performance Highlights
Last season, Gafford averaged 12.3 points per game, along with 6.8 rebounds and 1.8 blocks. Unfortunately, injuries limited him to just 57 games.
Contract and Future Outlook
This offseason, Gafford signed a three-year contract extension worth $54 million, which will keep him with the Mavericks through the 2028/29 season. As fans await his debut, there is hope that he will contribute effectively to the team’s success this season.
