The Dallas Mavericks frontcourt is getting healthier for the stretch run. Anthony Davis recently returned to the lineup. Now, Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford are both on track to return next week.
Lively has been out since January 14 with an ankle injury. In 32 games (25 starts) this season, Lively has averaged 9.1 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.7 blocks per game.
Gafford hasn’t played since February 10 due to a knee injury. In 51 games (28 starts) this season, Gafford has averaged 12.3 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game.
It’s expected that Lively and Gafford will split the center minutes for Dallas when they return. The Mavs are committed to playing Anthony Davis at power forward, while P.J. Washington has slid down to become the starting small forward.