Dallas' Trade Deadline: Marshall, Gafford In Demand

As the NBA trade deadline nears, Anthony Davis is reportedly unlikely to be moved by the Dallas Mavericks, who are currently 19-27 and 12th in the Western Conference. Davis is still recovering from a left hand injury sustained on January 8 and is not expected to play until late February at the earliest. His contract status and injury history have softened his market.

However, other Mavericks players are generating considerable interest. Forward Naji Marshall, averaging 14.7 points with a 63.5 true-shooting percentage, is considered a top trade target, with multiple scouts indicating widespread league interest. Marshall is under contract for approximately $9 million this season and $9.4 million next season.

Center Daniel Gafford is also attracting attention from teams like the Toronto Raptors, Atlanta Hawks, and Boston Celtics. Despite a dip in scoring due to an ankle sprain, Gafford remains a potent lob threat and interior defender. He signed a three-year, $54 million contract extension in July.

The Mavericks, burdened by the NBA's fourth-highest payroll, are seeking to reduce salary and replenish draft capital, which they have significantly traded away. They have limited control over their first-round picks until 2031 and second-round picks until 2030, though they hold the Lakers' unprotected 2029 first-round pick.