Dallas Mavericks final month stock watch: 5 risers, 5 fallers

8. Rising: Daniel Gafford

The Dallas Mavericks' trade for Daniel Gafford has paid off in a massive way, and he is looking like he could be a key piece for this team for years to come.

This season for Dallas, Gafford is averaging 11.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 0.7 steals, and 1.9 blocks per game while shooting 77.4 percent from the field. Gafford'ss efficiency has been a major strength of his since Dallas traded for him, and he recently was just two consecutive makes without a miss from breaking Wilt Chamberlain's record. To be mentioned in the same sentence as Chamberlain is an honor on its own, and Gafford has been on a historical run even though he fell short of the record.

Lately, Gafford has seemed to be much more aggressive when attacking the rim. Rather than just seeing Gafford catch lobs, we have seen him put the ball on the floor and posterize some defenders lately. He has also been a monster on the glass, and his energy is second to none.

Gafford ignites the American Airlines Center crowd every time he is in the game, and his offensive rebounding, shot-blocking, and dunks are appreciated by the fans.

Gafford has routinely been the starting center for Dallas as of late, and his stock continues to rise.