Naji Marshall backs Daniel Gafford as longtime Mavericks trade rumors persist

Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford has been in more trade rumors than anyone else on the team over the last few seasons despite his impact off the bench and as a starter. He has been in trade rumors for the last two seasons, and even after signing him to a three-year extension last summer, Dallas has explored trades for him.

Naji Marshall believes in Daniel Gafford

Despite this, it seems like Gafford could be moved this summer. The Mavs need to create a roster spot since they have 16 players on standard contracts, and Gafford is among the most expendable players on the roster. Despite the nonstop trade talk that has surrounded Gafford over the last few years, Naji Marshall is confident that the 27-year-old center is in for a bounce-back season.

On a recent Instagram post of Gafford's highlights from The Shane Butler Pro Runs in Dallas, Marshall commented, "No U turns watch how my brother make yall regret everything yall said..." and added "#HealthyGaf."

Marshall clearly believes that Gafford is in for a breakout year, and he very well could be right. Gafford was battling an ankle injury that he suffered within minutes of the first training camp practice for all of last season, and he finally began to look like his normal self at the end of the year.

How Gafford's 2025-26 season fell short

Many Mavericks fans have been down on Gafford after last season, as he only played 55 games and averaged just 9.5 points and 6.9 rebounds per game. It was a solid statistical season for the 6-foot-10 big man, but the eye test told a different story.

His athleticism was limited compared to normal, and his ankle caused him to exit multiple games early. He played fewer than 60 games in back-to-back seasons, and his durability was a major question mark for the second year in a row.

Gafford was seemingly always reinjuring his ankle right as he seemed to be healthy, but he finished the season much stronger than he started it.

Why Gafford can bounce back next season

Now, as he enters his third full season with the team, he has had all summer to rehab this ankle. This should help him get off to a strong start if he remains on the team, and Marshall seems certain of this.

He is showing his teammate the support he needs in a summer that has been filled with trade rumors, and Gafford could quickly make fans eat their words next season. He is an excellent finisher, rim protector, and energy guy when he's at his best, and if he can stay healthy, he should play a key role if Dallas decides to keep him.

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