Daniel Gafford Set to Make Season Debut as Mavericks Face Pistons in Mexico City

The Dallas Mavericks are set to welcome back center Daniel Gafford on Saturday night as they face the Detroit Pistons in Mexico City, marking the second stop in the NBA’s 2025 Global Games series. The matchup, which tips off at 10:00 p.m. ET on Peacock and Telemundo, gives Dallas a much-needed frontcourt reinforcement following a shaky 2–3 start to the season.

Gafford missed the team’s first five games after suffering a right ankle sprain during training camp, when he landed awkwardly on Anthony Davis’ foot. The 27-year-old has been cleared for full contact and will make his season debut after weeks of rehabilitation and limited practice participation.

His return comes at a crucial moment for the Mavericks, who will be without Davis, sidelined by a calf strain suffered earlier in the week. Davis was injured in the first quarter of a 107–105 win over the Indiana Pacers, exiting after only seven minutes of play. The Mavericks later confirmed that the All-Star forward would miss at least two games.

Saturday’s international game will not only mark Gafford’s return but also Dallas’ first regular-season appearance outside the United States since 2019, underscoring the league’s ongoing effort to expand its global presence.

1. Filling the Void Left by Davis’ Absence

Anthony Davis’ absence leaves a major void in Dallas’ lineup, particularly in rebounding, rim protection, and offensive versatility. Through five games, Davis had been averaging 20.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game while shooting over 52 percent from the field. His steady production and defensive leadership have been vital in stabilizing a roster still building chemistry under head coach Jason Kidd. Without Davis, the Mavericks will look to Gafford to anchor the paint and bring the same defensive intensity that defined his play last season. Known for his athleticism and shot-blocking instincts, Gafford has proven to be one of the league’s most efficient finishers around the rim. His 70.2 percent field-goal rate from last season ranked among the NBA’s best. Kidd praised Gafford’s progress in recent practices, noting that his return could restore balance to the team’s defensive schemes. “Daniel brings energy and presence on both ends,” Kidd said. “With AD out, he gives us an interior force we’ve been missing.” Alongside rookie forward Cooper Flagg and P.J. Washington, Gafford’s presence is expected to form one of the NBA’s tallest and most athletic front lines — a combination Dallas hopes will neutralize Detroit’s physical frontcourt led by Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart.

2. A Key Test in Mexico City

The Mavericks’ matchup against the Pistons offers more than just a return to full strength; it’s a test of depth and adaptability early in the season. Dallas enters the game on a high note after edging Indiana on Wednesday, a victory powered by Luka Doncic’s 34 points and a late defensive stand. Now, the team aims to string together consecutive wins for the first time this year. For the Pistons, Cade Cunningham continues to pace the offense with his blend of scoring and playmaking, while rookie Ausar Thompson has quickly emerged as one of the league’s most dynamic defenders. Detroit’s 3–2 start has been one of the early surprises of the Eastern Conference, making Saturday’s contest a compelling matchup of rising talent. The Mexico City game also represents a significant event for the NBA’s international outreach. With fans expected from across Latin America, the matchup will showcase two young, fast-paced teams emphasizing athleticism and skill development. Gafford’s reintegration will be closely watched — both for his health and for how quickly he can regain chemistry alongside Doncic and the new-look Mavericks frontcourt. His return could determine whether Dallas can maintain its defensive identity without Davis in the coming weeks.

3. Building Momentum for the Road Ahead

The Mavericks’ early-season story has been one of adaptation — new personnel, early injuries, and fluctuating rotations. But with Gafford’s return, Dallas has a chance to reestablish the balance that made it competitive in the Western Conference last year. Kidd’s focus will remain on controlling the boards and defending the paint, areas that have fluctuated in Davis’ absence. The coaching staff is also expected to limit Gafford’s minutes initially as he works back into game shape, with Dereck Lively II and Dwight Powell expected to share time in the rotation. For Dallas, Saturday’s matchup serves as both a milestone and a measuring stick — a chance to prove that even short-handed, the team can adapt and compete against rising Eastern Conference opponents. As the Mavericks prepare to face Houston on Monday, a win in Mexico City could provide much-needed momentum and confidence heading into a crucial stretch of November games.