Daniel Gafford Doubtful For Dallas Mavericks’ Season Opener vs. San Antonio Spurs
The Dallas Mavericks’ frontcourt depth may be tested on opening night. Daniel Gafford has been downgraded to doubtful for Wednesday’s regular-season opener against the San Antonio Spurs due to a right ankle sprain, according to the team’s official injury report.
Earlier Tuesday, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd said Gafford would be listed as questionable, but the final designation suggests his return could be delayed as the team continues to take a cautious approach.
Injury Updates Clarify Rotation Picture
The Mavericks’ updated injury report lists Danté Exum (out, right knee injury management) and Kyrie Irving (out, left knee surgery) alongside Gafford.
Exum’s designation marks the first official confirmation of his continued recovery process, while Irving remains sidelined as he continues his rehabilitation from offseason surgery.
“Gaff is gonna be questionable. Kai and Exum will be out,” Kidd said before Tuesday’s practice, referring to Irving and Exum.
Gafford has been ramping up activity after missing all of the preseason. He was initially expected to miss two to three weeks with a sprained ankle, but showed encouraging progress in recent workouts. Kidd had expressed optimism over the weekend that the 6-foot-10 center could be available for the opener.
Jason Kidd’s Confidence in Dereck Lively II’s Development
Should Gafford remain sidelined, Dereck Lively II is expected to carry a heavier load in the frontcourt alongside Anthony Davis. Kidd praised the 21-year-old’s growth and leadership during camp, emphasizing that Dallas views him as a rising cornerstone.
“I agree with Gaff,” Kidd said when asked about Lively’s upcoming season. “I think there’s some growth there. We always believe in his energy and his voice. He’s evolving into a leader on this team. So, I’d say Gaff is right — I think he’s going to have one of his better seasons.”
Lively averaged 9.1 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists in 32 games before his own injury last season, earning All-Rookie Second Team honors. His continued development is key to Dallas’ plan to blend size and speed in its new “tall-ball” identity.
Dallas Mavericks Preparing for Victor Wembanyama Challenge
The Mavericks will open the 2025–26 campaign with a marquee matchup against Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs, the first of five consecutive home games to begin the season. Kidd acknowledged the challenge of facing the 7-foot-4 phenom, who enters his second year as one of the NBA’s most difficult covers.
“When you talk about Victor, it’s hard to simulate his length,” Kidd said. “He’s one of the best players in the league. You just try to make it tough on him.”
Dallas’ early schedule — five games in eight days — could further influence rotation decisions as the team balances health management with establishing rhythm.
“Our depth will be tested,” Kidd said. “If you want to be one of the best teams in the league, you’ve got to protect home.”
Opening Night Context
Even with Gafford doubtful, the Mavericks are expected to roll out one of the league’s biggest starting lineups, featuring Davis, Lively, Klay Thompson, P.J. Washington, and rookie Cooper Flagg. The group has emphasized pace, rebounding, and rim protection through camp.
“We all want to play faster,” Kidd said. “The hit-ahead pass is going to be important because we are bigger. I thought the pace was really good in preseason — our big group got downhill and made plays for one another.”
Dallas and San Antonio will tip off Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. CST, marking the first regular-season meeting between Wembanyama and Flagg.
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