As the NBA season charges ahead, the Dallas Mavericks are continuing their search for consistency.
In a crucial moment following a 110-93 victory over the San Antonio Spurs, head coach Jason Kidd shed light on the ongoing battle for the starting center spot between Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively II. With established stars like Luka Dončić, Kyrie Irving, and Klay Thompson forming the backbone of the lineup, the Mavericks’ roster has several open slots, and the competition for those positions is heating up.
Both Gafford and Lively II have demonstrated impressive skills, but Kidd made it clear that the starting role isn’t set in stone just yet. “They both play well as starters. They both play well off the bench,” Kidd told reporters post-game, leaving the door open for ongoing evaluation. His statement reveals a deep trust in both players’ abilities, acknowledging their potential to impact the team in various ways. Kidd, known for his tactical mindset, emphasized that the decision remains fluid, indicating he is willing to adjust based on team needs and player performances.
When asked about the competition between the two, Kidd added some levity to the situation, remarking, “If it were the ’80s, we’d play them both at the same time. But it’s not the ’80s, so only one can start.” His lighthearted comment reflected his confidence in the depth of his roster and the different skills each player brings to the table. For now, Lively II has the nod as the starting center, but Kidd’s approach shows he isn’t locking into any long-term decisions just yet.
In the game against the Spurs, Lively II’s performance was a mixed bag. The young center contributed 7 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists in just 20 minutes, but it was his defensive presence that caught attention. Lively recorded 4 blocks, showcasing his shot-blocking ability and potential as a rim protector. However, his offensive impact was more subdued, a reality that could make Kidd’s decision more difficult in the coming days.
Advertisement
We’re on Social Media
Follow us on X
See more football highlights
Meanwhile, Gafford, who came off the bench, delivered a standout performance. His scoring was nothing short of efficient, as he dropped 22 points on 9-of-10 shooting from the field and a perfect 4-of-4 from the free-throw line. Gafford also chipped in with 7 rebounds and 1 assist, offering a reliable and dynamic presence in the paint. His performance may add weight to the argument that he deserves more minutes in the starting lineup, but Kidd’s approach is not one based solely on numbers.
Despite the win over the Spurs, the Mavericks’ shooting performance left room for improvement. The team converted only 44 of 94 field goals (46.8%) and struggled from beyond the arc, hitting just 8 of 31 three-point attempts. However, their free-throw shooting helped seal the win, with Dallas making 14 of 18 attempts. The Spurs, by contrast, struggled from the line, missing 4 of their 30 free throws. This disparity in free-throw shooting may have been the deciding factor in a game that was otherwise quite close.
As the Mavericks’ record stands at 6-7, the team is still in the process of finding its rhythm. Kidd, however, remains optimistic. He’s counting on players like Lively II and Gafford to step up and help the team solidify its standing in the competitive Western Conference. Their individual performances could play a pivotal role in shaping the Mavericks’ ultimate success this season, as Kidd looks to fine-tune his rotation and maximize the potential of every player.
The matchup with the Spurs also showcased Dallas’ depth, as their success wasn’t dependent on a single player. In addition to strong bench contributions from Gafford, other players like Dončić and Irving continue to anchor the team. The Mavericks’ ability to stay competitive despite shooting struggles speaks to the team’s resilience and potential for growth, especially with role players like Lively II and Gafford stepping up.
Looking ahead, the question remains: who will emerge as the Mavericks’ starting center? Will Lively II’s defensive upside be enough to keep him in the role, or will Gafford’s efficiency and offensive reliability earn him the starting job? Kidd’s decision could have significant implications for how the Mavericks navigate the rest of the season.
Regardless of who gets the starting nod, the competition between Gafford and Lively II signals positive depth for the Mavericks. Both players have demonstrated their value, and Kidd’s challenge will be finding the right balance to ensure the team performs at its highest level. The depth and flexibility within the Mavericks’ roster could prove to be an asset as the season progresses, with Kidd’s strategic decisions helping to guide the team to a more consistent performance.
For now, as Kidd keeps evaluating his options, one thing is certain: both Gafford and Lively II have earned their place in the Mavericks’ rotation. Their ability to step up and contribute will be critical as the team aims to find stability and establish itself as a serious contender in the Western Conference.
In the end, the decision will likely come down to who can bring the most balance to the lineup, complementing the Mavericks’ star trio while offering the necessary support in both offense and defense. It will be interesting to see how Kidd continues to navigate the center rotation and whether his fluid approach will pay off in the long run.