“Just Having Them Back Will Be a Boost”: Mavericks Eye Play-In Push with Gafford, Lively Nearing Return

Mavericks face key injury questions vs. Nets with Gafford and Lively nearing returns, while Irving, Exum, and Prosper remain out for the stretch run.

Photo: Dallas Mavericks

Daniel Gafford has been upgraded to probable, and Dereck Lively II is listed as questionable as the Dallas Mavericks open a two-game homestand Monday night against the Brooklyn Nets. The injury developments come at a critical juncture for a team trying to solidify its position in the Western Conference play-in race.

Through 75 unpredictable games filled with roster changes, trades, and injuries, the Mavericks (37-38) have climbed into ninth place in the West, one-half game ahead of Sacramento and 2.0 games up on Phoenix. With seven games remaining, the team aims to finish strong and possibly host a postseason game in the play-in tournament.

“Just having them back will be a boost,” head coach Jason Kidd said of Gafford and Lively. “Especially for our defense.”