Offensive Game
Elite lob target and above-the-rim finisher. Limited offensive creation but incredibly efficient around the basket — career 70%+ field goal percentage makes him one of the most accurate scorers in the NBA near the rim.
Career Journey
Washington Wizards
2020-2024
Dallas Mavericks
2024-present
2020 NBA Draft
Selected 9th overall by Washington Wizards
Athletic Big
Elite lob finisher and rim protector
Career Earnings
~$20M
Estimated total NBA career salary
Player Agent
2025-26 season · View contract
| Season | GP | PPG | RPG | APG | FG% | 3P% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-26 | 55 | 9.5 | 6.9 | 1.1 | 65.5% | 0.0% |
Daniel Gafford is a bouncy, rim-running center whose value comes from lob finishing and shot-blocking. A 2019 draftee out of Arkansas, he developed into one of the league's most efficient interior scorers, shooting a high percentage almost entirely at the rim while protecting the paint on the other end. Since joining the Dallas Mavericks he has been a reliable play-finisher, averaging 9.5 points and 6.9 rebounds in 2025-26 while ranking among the career leaders in blocks per game. Gafford's vertical spacing, quick leaping and rim protection make him a clean, low-usage fit next to ball-dominant creators.
Offensive Game
Elite lob target and above-the-rim finisher. Limited offensive creation but incredibly efficient around the basket — career 70%+ field goal percentage makes him one of the most accurate scorers in the NBA near the rim.
Defensive Game
Excellent rim protector and pick-and-roll defender. Uses his length and timing to contest shots and clog driving lanes. Among the better defensive centers in the NBA during his prime.
Intangibles
Understands his role completely and executes it at a high level. Good defensive communicator and sets elite screens to free teammates. Improving his positioning on both ends season by season.
Personal Life & Family
Status
In relationship
Children (1)
Parents & Siblings
Off the Court
Community visits and youth programs in El Dorado and Dallas
Did You Know?
Gafford shoots over 70% from the field for his career — placing him among the most efficient big men in NBA history on a shot-for-shot basis.
He grew up in El Dorado, Arkansas — the same small city that has produced several notable professional athletes, cementing its reputation as a hidden sports talent hub.
His combination with Dereck Lively II gives Dallas two of the most physically imposing centers in a shared rotation — an unusual luxury for a Western Conference team.
Despite being a second-round pick, Gafford has consistently outperformed first-round centers of his draft class, becoming one of the best examples of late-round value in recent NBA history.
Career Honors
2019 SEC Defensive Player of the Year
Career 70%+ field goal percentage (one of the highest among active NBA centers)
Washington Wizards franchise records in field goal percentage
Official Jerseys
113.00
Check Price on NBA Store
93.00
Check Price on NBA Store113.00
Check Price on NBA Store93.00
Check Price on NBA Store93.00
Check Price on NBA Store113.00
Check Price on NBA Store113.00
Check Price on NBA Store
763.99
Check Price on NBA Store
161.24
Check Price on NBA StoreDallas Mavericks · Official
82.00
Check Price on NBA StoreAffiliate link · Disclosure
249.99
Check Price on NBA StoreAffiliate link · Disclosure
59.99
Check Price on NBA StoreAffiliate link · Disclosure
79.99
Check Price on NBA StoreAffiliate link · Disclosure
Shop · Worldwide
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Dallas Mavericks
Dallas Mavericks
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