Daniel Gafford: The Mavericks’ New Dominant Force: Big Man Steals Spotlight with Career-High Stopper
Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford scored his 27th point of the team’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans in the fourth quarter on Wednesday night, setting a new career-high for his most points scored in a game. Gafford’s previous career-high was 26, something he accomplished in 2023, per StatMuse. However, the Pelicans narrowly defeated the Mavericks by a final score of 119-116.
The Mavs knew the game was going to be a challenge, as Kyrie Irving, Luka Doncic , Dereck Lively II and Dante Exum were all out due because of injuries. Irving was initially listed as doubtful before ultimately being ruled out before tip-off. It was clear the Mavericks needed someone else to step.
Daniel Gafford answered the call.
The Mavericks center led the way with 27 points to go along with 12 rebounds in a double-double effort. He also missed just one shot, going 12-13 from the field. Jaden Hardy added 21 points and Spencer Dinwiddie added 20, but the Mavs still fell short in the end.
More to come on this story.
