The Dallas Mavericks face the New York Knicks with Daniel Gafford added to the injury report, as they battle injuries and illness ahead of Wednesday’s matchup at home.
DALLAS — As the Dallas Mavericks prepare to face the New York Knicks on Wednesday night, they are dealing with a growing list of injury and illness concerns that could challenge their depth. The latest addition to the injury report is Daniel Gafford, who is now listed as questionable due to illness—making him the fourth player to carry this designation.
Gafford, who contributed 10 points and 9 rebounds in the Mavericks’ 129-119 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Monday, could face a heavier workload if he can suit up, especially with the team already missing several key players.
Luka Dončić (right wrist sprain) and Danté Exum (right wrist surgery) are confirmed to be out, while Klay Thompson (left foot plantar fascia), Dereck Lively II (illness), and Quentin Grimes (illness) are all listed as questionable. With multiple players uncertain for the game, the Mavericks are again facing a test of their depth as they attempt to build on a hard-earned victory in Atlanta.
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In that game, despite being undermanned, the Mavericks rallied from a six-point halftime deficit, mainly due to Kyrie Irving’s 32-point performance, including 16 points in the fourth quarter. Irving has been the focal point for Dallas with Dončić sidelined, and his leadership has been crucial in keeping the team competitive. Dallas has gone 3-1 in games Irving has played without Dončić this season.
“We’ve got a lot of competitors in this locker room, a lot of hoopers, and guys that just want to win and are willing to put their bodies on the line,” Irving said after the win. “We’re not sure who’s going to be healthy day in and day out, but those who suit up are going to be ready to play. You’ve just got to put the best effort forward and leave it all out there.”
In the absence of Dončić, the Mavericks have shown they can rely on their supporting cast, with Naji Marshall, Spencer Dinwiddie, and Jaden Hardy stepping up to help carry the load. Marshall, in particular, has provided significant contributions, and Hardy’s scoring — including a season-high 23 points against Atlanta — has given the Mavericks a much-needed spark. Marshall has scored 20 more points in three consecutive games. Against the Hawks, Dinwiddie added 22 points and 4 assists, while Hardy chipped in a season-high 23 points and 3 steals.
“We did that tonight as a team,” Irving said, reflecting on the collective effort. “They were carrying me as well throughout different levels of the game. That’s what makes team sports beautiful. You can start off not playing your best, but how you finish is everything.”
While Irving continues to carry the team’s offensive load, P.J. Washington has stepped up, averaging 20.3 points and 12.5 rebounds in games without Dončić. With Dončić expected to be re-evaluated this week, more of this impact will be needed, especially if a key wing player is ruled out.
Given Lively did not play in the second half of Monday’s game due to illness and remains questionable, Gafford being added to the injury report could significantly deplete the Mavericks’ center depth against New York. Dwight Powell and Maxi Kleber stand out as options, while the team could try to go small with Washington for stretches at the five if there is enough wing depth. Depending on how depleted the wing rotation gets, Thompson and Grimes are both listed as questionable. Olivier-Maxence Prosper is a candidate for more minutes and three-guard units.
Kleber, who has already seen an increased role due to injuries. His versatility remains valued, and he was instrumental in the win over Atlanta, contributing 7 points, 5 rebounds, and a crucial block during critical moments of the game.
“I thought Maxi did a great job tagging in for him,” head coach Jason Kidd said of Kleber’s performance. “He rebounded, had a big block, and even made some key playmaking decisions. Maxi’s minutes were great, especially with Dereck going out due to illness.”
As the Mavericks look to build on their 10-8 record, they will face a Knicks team led by former Maverick Jalen Brunson. New York will be without Mitchell Robinson (left ankle surgery) and Precious Achiuwa (strained left hamstring).
Tipoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. CT at American Airlines Center, with ESPN broadcasting the game.
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