Mavericks' major frontcourt question already has a painfully obvious solution

The Dallas Mavericks center position took a hit this season when Dereck Lively II underwent season-ending surgery on his right foot. His injury laid the foundation for Daniel Gafford, Dwight Powell, and Moussa Cisse to hold down the five spot. However, Marvin Bagley III has made a statement that he deserves to be part of the center rotation next season.

The newest Mav has been a dominant force since arriving in Dallas in the Anthony Davis trade. He fit right in during his first game, as he had a double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds. Defensively, he also had four blocks and one steal. His performance was the exact dominance the team lacked, as they desperately needed a dual force inside.

As mentioned, Bagley III has exceeded expectations since his arrival. His high level of play has also put pressure on Daniel Gafford. The 6-foot-10 center has struggled to take that next leap this season. His production has taken a major hit; he has struggled to replicate numbers from two seasons ago when Gafford helped Dallas reach the NBA Finals, and his ankle injuries have become worrisome.

Bagley III is the perfect complement behind Lively II in Mavs' frontcourt

Bagley III, though, has shown he can be a perfect part of the Mavs' future rotation and a key contributor behind Dereck Lively II for years to come.

The former No. 2 pick has been the biggest silver lining of the Anthony Davis trade. He has recorded three double-doubles since arriving in Dallas, and his athleticism has been above the roof. Plus, his high production in the paint has allowed the team to be far more dominant inside. They have lacked a consistent backup option behind Gafford all season.

His recent production is a perfect example of his high-level play. Against the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday, Bagley III had one of his best games. He scored a near-season-high 22 points, as he shot 76.9 percent from the field. Bagley III dominated in various ways; he excelled in the pick-and-roll game, sunk a nasty hook shot, and powered his way through the defense for numerous second-chance points.

Bagley III's performance is the same production Mavs fans have missed seeing from Gafford. It wasn't too long ago that Gafford dominated the paint for Dallas. He was once a powerful force who, like Bagley III, dominated in pick-and-roll opportunities and inside the paint.

Gafford's numbers have taken a hit, as injuries and a decline in production have taken their toll. His early struggles were well noted, as fans questioned whether he would be traded at the trade deadline. The Mavs' center was linked in numerous trade rumors, and he was one of the team's top trade targets.

Now, it's still possible Gafford could be traded this summer. Dallas will need to make room to bring back Bagley III; trading Gafford would be the perfect solution.

Bagley III has proven he deserves a long-term contract with Dallas, and if the Mavs bring him back, it could come at Gafford's expense. The newest Maverick's recent production would make him a perfect pair alongside Lively II. It would be foolish for Dallas to let him walk. His high level of play is the exact production Dallas needs alongside Cooper Flagg's future team.