Daniel Gafford
19Breakdown
Performance
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January 2, 2026
Not starting vs. Philadelphia
Gafford won't start against the 76ers on Thursday.
Analysis
With Anthony Davis (adductor) back in the lineup, Gafford will slide to the second unit. Over his last five games off the bench, the 27-year-old center has averaged 4.8 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.6 blocks in 15.2 minutes per tilt.
December 30, 2025
Returns Monday
Gafford (undisclosed) returned to Monday's game against the Trail Blazers with 6:03 remaining in the fourth quarter, per the broadcast.
Analysis
Gafford briefly exited to the locker room earlier in the quarter but returned to the bench shortly thereafter. He appears to be good to go for the remainder of the game after checking back in.
December 30, 2025
Walks to locker room
Gafford went to the locker room during the fourth quarter of Monday's game against the Trail Blazers with an undisclosed injury, Grant Afseth of DallasHoopsJournal.com reports.
Analysis
Gafford checked out of the game with 9:08 remaining in the fourth and walked right past the bench and down the tunnel. It's unclear as to what might be ailing him, so he can be considered questionable to return until the team provides an update.
December 28, 2025
Serviceable in start
Gafford notched 11 points (5-7 FG, 1-1 FT), seven rebounds, one assist, one block and one steal in 23 minutes during Saturday's 113-107 loss to Sacramento.
Analysis
Gafford moved into the starting lineup, replacing Anthony Davis, who was ultimately ruled out due to a groin injury. Gafford was able to log at least 20 minutes for the first time in his past nine games, providing serviceable production on both ends of the floor. Until Davis is given the green light to return, Gafford is worth considering as a short-term addition, even in standard nine-category leagues.
December 27, 2025
Starting sans Davis
Gafford will start against the Kings on Saturday, Mike Curtis of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis
With Anthony Davis (adductor) sidelined, Gafford will step back into a starting role. In 13 starts so far this season, the big man has averaged 9.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, 1.6 blocks, 1.5 assists and 1.0 steals in 23.0 minutes per tilt.
December 26, 2025
Muted effort Thursday
Gafford supplied six points (3-3 FG) and five rebounds across 15 minutes during Thursday's 126-116 loss to Golden State.
Analysis
Gafford hasn't cracked the 20-minute mark since the Nov. 24 loss in Miami, but he could see a rise in playing time with Anthony Davis (groin) likely to miss some time. Gafford has averaged 4.0 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.3 blocks in 14.8 minutes per contest over his last seven games.