NBA Trade Rumors: Mavericks Make $14.9M Key Player Untouchable Amid Major Interest From Luka Doncic's Lakers 

The latest NBA trade rumors suggest that the Mavericks have no intention of trading Daniel Gafford's $14.9 million contract amid significant interest from the Luka Doncic-led Lakers. Mavericks insider Marc Stein reported this on Sunday after reports emerged that several teams are monitoring his situation amid Dallas' poor start to the season.

If by the trade deadline, the Mavericks aren't close to playoff contention, it would make sense for them to move on from most of their veterans and rebuild around No. 1 pick Gafford. However, it seems the Mavericks are bullish about their chances to contend with this core.

Gafford could have been the most viable trade asset, given the rising value of centers around the NBA. The Mavericks extended him last offseason on a three-year $54.4 million contract, so they won't be compelled to make a midseason fire sale.

The Mavericks will also have to move stars Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving to start a rebuild with no guarantees of favorable draft capital over the next five years. They are unlikely to take that route as they haven't seen this core on the court and its potential.

Moreover, the Mavericks have major health issues among their big man rotation. Dereck Lively II, Anthony Davis and Daniel Gafford have missed a combined 17 games. Should the Mavericks remain on course to at least make the play-in tournament, it would be a considerable loss if Gafford gets traded.

Edited by Arhaan Raje