Dallas Mavericks Bolster Frontcourt with Draft-Night Trades
Lively Acquired from Thunder, Gafford from Wizards
Improved depth and versatility for playoff push
The Dallas Mavericks made a splash on draft night, completing two trades that significantly strengthen their frontcourt. In one deal, they acquired center Dereck Lively II from the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for Cason Wallace and a future second-round pick.
Lively, a 7-foot-1 center, is considered one of the most promising defensive prospects in the league. He averaged 8.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks per game in his lone season at Duke University.
In a separate trade, the Mavericks acquired center Daniel Gafford from the Washington Wizards in exchange for a protected second-round pick. Gafford, a 6-foot-10 center, is known for his rebounding and defensive toughness. Last season, he averaged 10.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game.
These trades come as the Mavericks look to improve their playoff chances in the waning weeks of the regular season. With Lively and Gafford in the fold, Dallas now has a more versatile and deep frontcourt that can compete with the best teams in the league.
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