What happened: Dallas previously explored attaching Daniel Gafford to the No. 30 pick to move into the top 20 of the 2026 NBA Draft. That move did not materialize; the club later climbed to No. 25 using future second-round picks.
Why it matters: The asking price sets a high threshold for a deal as Dallas finalizes its 2026-27 roster. A trade would remove a multiyear salary commitment, while keeping Gafford would preserve an established option at center.
By the numbers: Gafford's three-year, $54 million extension averages $18 million per season.
What to watch: The roster deadline will determine whether Dallas uses a trade or waiver to open the required spot.