Mavs big man Daniel Gafford is a realistic center option for the LA Lakers, given his fit as a lob threat and interest in playing for Slovenia in FIBA competitions.
According to Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, Dalton Knecht is a primary trade bait option, while Gafford is highlighted as a possible summer trade target for Los Angeles.
Jovan Buha of The Athletic also mentioned that Gafford is a realistic center option for the LA Lakers, despite their lack of cap space this summer.
“I think Daniel Gafford is a big that would fit in LA really well,” Buha mentioned on his latest podcast. “Gafford is one that could be realistic. I don’t think he is untouchable in Dallas.”
The 26-year-old Gafford is known for being a lob-threat big man, which perfectly aligns with what the Lakers are seeking.
This season, he has averaged a career-high 12.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks over 51 games for the Dallas Mavericks, although he is currently sidelined due to a grade 3 right MCL sprain.
Gafford’s interest in playing for Slovenia in FIBA competitions also makes him an attractive option for the Lakers.
He previously expressed a desire to play for Slovenia, but the team was unable to complete his naturalization process in time for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament last summer.
With FIBA EuroBasket 2025 taking place during the upcoming offseason, Gafford and Doncic could potentially strengthen their bond after their time together in Dallas.
Gafford is a six-year NBA veteran who has played for the Chicago Bulls, Washington Wizards, and Dallas Mavericks since being selected 38th overall in the 2019 draft. He holds career averages of 9.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks over 372 games.
