The Dallas Mavericks enter the 2025–26 season with a revamped roster and championship aspirations. Anthony Davis’ arrival and rookie phenom Cooper Flagg’s debut bring star power, and Kyrie Irving’s highly anticipated midseason return from ACL surgery adds another elite scoring option to the mix. Yet in between the stars, the Mavericks’ bench — led by Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington — could play a pivotal role in determining how far Dallas goes.
Gafford: Energy and rim dominance
Gafford has established himself as one of the league’s most efficient interior players. In 2024–25, he averaged 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks, shooting over 70% from the floor, before a Grade 3 MCL sprain sidelined him. Dallas responded by securing him on a three-year extension worth roughly $54–60 million, signaling confidence in his role moving forward.
With Davis and Dereck Lively II starting, Gafford is expected to anchor the second unit. His role is clear: protect the rim, finish lobs, crash the boards, and provide instant energy. He doesn’t need high usage to shift momentum — his hustle plays, putbacks, and defensive presence can spark crucial runs when the starters rest.
Washington: Versatility and scoring punch
Washington complements Gafford perfectly. Fresh off a four-year, $90 million extension, he averaged 14.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists last season, hitting 38% from three. His ability to guard multiple positions, stretch the floor, and provide secondary scoring makes him an ideal bench weapon.
Though Washington could challenge for a starting spot, his bench role allows Dallas to maximize flexibility. Whether it’s pairing with Flagg in small-ball lineups or spacing the floor when Kyrie returns midseason, Washington’s versatility keeps the Mavericks dynamic.
Kyrie Irving: Midseason boost
Kyrie’s return is expected around midseason, giving Dallas another elite scorer to pair with Davis and Flagg. While the team will lean on its bench early, Irving’s reintroduction will create new lineup possibilities and relieve pressure on both starters and reserves alike.
Why their bench roles matter
- Momentum plays: Gafford’s rim protection and Washington’s versatile scoring can ignite runs.
- Flexible rotations: Kidd can mix bigs and wings depending on matchups.
- Consistency: Both contribute impact without high usage, allowing stars to thrive.
With Davis, Flagg, and eventually Kyrie leading the charge, Gafford and Washington anchor a second unit that can keep Dallas competitive from tip-off until Kyrie’s return. Their energy and reliability off the bench could be the difference between a strong season and a deep playoff run.
The Mavericks’ championship hopes won’t just depend on their stars — the spark from Gafford and Washington, combined with Kyrie’s midseason arrival, could turn Dallas from a promising team into a true contender