Daniel Gafford’s right ankle injury continued to trouble the Dallas Mavericks during their game against the Boston Celtics on Tuesday night. In the second quarter, the Mavericks’ center twisted his right ankle awkwardly after his leg collided with a Celtics player while defending, forcing him to immediately grab his ankle and fall to the floor in pain.
Despite Injury, Gafford Returns to Court and Contributes
After initially heading to the locker room, Gafford was able to return in the middle of the third quarter following some treatment and a retaping of his ankle. Demonstrating determination, he finished the game with 10 points and 12 rebounds. Nevertheless, Dallas was defeated by Boston with a final score of 110-100.
Recurring Ankle Issue Has Limited Gafford’s Season Participation
This injury is not new for Gafford, who first sprained his ankle on the opening day of training camp and has since reinjured it several times throughout the season. So far, the ongoing ankle problem has sidelined him for 16 games, and the latest aggravation raises concerns about his availability moving forward.
Gafford Shares His Mindset Amid Injury and Trade Speculations
“It’s just a love for the game, honestly,”
Gafford explained after the game when asked why he returned despite the injury.
“Every day ain’t promised. So I’m trying to take advantage of the things I can do – and not worry about the things that I can’t, whenever I’m not on the floor.”
Adding to the anxiety surrounding his health is the upcoming NBA trade deadline on Thursday. Gafford is widely regarded as a potential trade candidate, and ongoing injury concerns might affect how teams evaluate him.
Despite these rumors, Gafford maintains a focused and resilient attitude.
“It’s a business, so at the end of the day, if it takes me having to be moved, I just put the next foot forward and keep pushing,”
he said.
“You know, God’s got me at the end of the day.”
The Road Ahead for Gafford and the Mavericks
Daniel Gafford’s persistent ankle injury poses a significant challenge for the Mavericks as they approach the trade deadline and the remainder of the season. How the team manages his health and potential trade negotiations will be crucial for their roster decisions. For now, Gafford’s determination to play through pain reflects his commitment, but the Mavericks must carefully monitor his condition to avoid worsening the injury and to safeguard their defensive depth.
Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford just went back to the locker room.
He was holding his right ankle.
He sprained this ankle on the first day of training camp this season, and has re-injured it multiple times. pic.twitter.com/MqIbmiiQGJ
— Noah Weber (@noahweber00) February 4, 2026
