The Golden State Warriors face a pressing need to bolster their frontcourt depth this offseason, particularly at the center position.
The Warriors lack the rim protection and rebounding necessary to compete against elite teams like the Denver Nuggets or Minnesota Timberwolves when push comes to shove in the postseason.
Interestingly, a trade target could be emerging for Golden State's summer menu in the form of Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford.
With Dallas facing financial constraints, Gafford’s $14.4 million expiring contract in 2025-26 could make him expendable, especially with Dereck Lively seen as the Mavs' center of the future.
HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto reported on Wednesday, “Gafford is a trade candidate to monitor should he not agree to an extension with Dallas. The 26-year-old center will want a pay raise, the Mavericks already have (Anthony) Davis on a max contract, and 21-year-old center Dereck Lively is a year away from being extension-eligible.”
Gafford, acquired by Dallas at the 2024 trade deadline, proved instrumental in their NBA Finals run last season, averaging 9.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in the playoffs. His elite rim protection and ability to finish lobs would make him an ideal fit for Golden State’s fast-paced, pick-and-roll-heavy offense.
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Pairing Gafford with Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler could create dynamic offensive sets, while Gafford's defensive prowess would be an obvious plus for Golden State.
For a team aiming to maximize Curry’s championship window, Gafford could be a key piece.
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