Mavericks cut ties with Daniel Gafford in proposed trade for Knicks’ $40.1 million big man | Sporting News

The Dallas Mavericks could look to make a move or two as they prepare for a championship run.

Fadeaway World suggests they part with Daniel Gafford to give them more assets towards the future.

Proposed Trade Details:

Mavericks Receive: Mitchell Robinson, 2025 First-Round Pick (via WAS)

Knicks Receive: Gafford

The Mavs may be reluctant to trade one of Luka Doncic’s preferred lob targets, but this trade gives Dallas another big man who can be a beneficiary of Doncic’s lobs while providing rim-protecting defense.

Robinson is eyeing a January return after undergoing ankle surgery in the offseason.

Losing Gafford would be tough, as he shoots over 75% within five feet of the basket.

However, Doncic would be able to lead a healthy Robinson to the same type of offensive success, though a healthy Robinson is no sure thing. Dereck Lively II has the Mavs covered at the center position. While he’s currently producing at the same rate as his rookie season, it’s only a matter of time before he takes that next step in his game.

The pick the Mavs would get also helps replenish their depleted draft capital.

The Washington Wizards pick the Knicks would give up in this trade will almost certainly not convey this or next year since it’s top 10 protected in 2025 and top eight protected in 2026. It’ll automatically convey to two second-round picks in 2027.

This trade also gives the Knicks a solid rim-protecting big next to Karl-Anthony Towns.

If the Mavs prefer to keep Gafford in the fold, perhaps they could look to another New York team to help bolster their defense.

Considering all of this, the Mavs would likely prefer to add at least one first-round pick if they trade Gafford, but this is a move that could make sense for both sides.

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