Detroit's Jalen Duren looks to replicate his 17-point and 17-rebound game against the Indiana Pacers two weeks ago while Dallas's Daniel Gafford has an advantageous matchup defensive against a Pelicans team that takes a lot of shots in the painted area.

A look at why the Dallas Mavericks should avoid moving center Daniel Gafford before the upcoming NBA trade deadline.

The healthy players on the Dallas Mavericks roster know they have to ramp up their production until their injured teammates return.

The Mavericks, as The Athletic reported earlier this month, have expressed interest in conversations with rival teams about acquiring an impact perimeter defender. Dallas, according to

Oklahoma City Thunder Luguentz Dort was ejected for a nut shot on Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford on Thursday.

Gafford allows his opponents to shoot just 48.8% within six feet of the rim, which is the best mark of any player who has played at least 20 games and defends at least five such attempts per contest. Still, Dallas could end their time with the versatile big man.

Excellent two-way play

Klay Thompson scored 21 of his 23 points in the first quarter, matching a Dallas record by hitting seven 3-pointers in the period, and the Mavericks breezed past the NBA-worst Washington Wizards 130-108.

Dallas Mavericks‘ recent 137-136 nail-biting victory over the New Orleans Pelicans highlighted more than just the team’s collective resilience—it underscored the importance of Klay Thompson’s evolving role within their system.

The Dallas Mavericks opened a five-game Eastern Conference road trip with a Wednesday night game against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center.

P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford had double-doubles, four of their Dallas teammates scored in double figures and the visiting Mavericks defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 137-136.