NBA Notes: Mavericks, Daniel Gafford, Pacers, TJ McConnell, Bulls

Mavericks

The Mavericks keep getting calls on Daniel Gafford. They expected that when they signed him to a three-year, $54 million extension. But per Marc Stein of The Stein Line, Dallas has shown no interest in moving him.

At least not yet.

One of the reasons is Dereck Lively II. The third-year center has only played three games because of a knee sprain. He only played 36 last season. So it’s hard to imagine Dallas feeling comfortable subtracting size when the one young big they have can’t stay on the floor.

The problem is the standings. The Mavs are 3-7 with a very forgiving early schedule. If this continues, Stein suggests they may have to think about a reset.

And because Dallas only controls one of its own firsts through 2030 — the 2026 pick — that could get complicated fast.

Gafford has been dealing with a right ankle sprain of his own. He’s played five games. He’s averaging 8.8 points, 4.4 rebounds and 1.4 blocks in 19.6 minutes. Not great production compared to the past two years.

Still, Stein labels him one of Dallas’ “most attractive trade candidates.”

Pacers

The Pacers finally got a little bit of good news.

T.J. McConnell is getting closer, coach Rick Carlisle said, via Dustin Dopirak of The Indianapolis Star.

McConnell strained his left hamstring in the preseason opener back on October 7, and this is the first encouraging update since then.

“He is ramping up pretty steadily,” Carlisle said.

Rookie guard Kam Jones (lower back stress reaction) is progressing too, but Carlisle said his return is not close.

Indiana was 1-8 entering Sunday night and extremely banged up. Nine players were out Sunday in Golden State. Andrew Nembhard did finally return yesterday after missing seven games with a left shoulder injury.

Bulls

Josh Giddey is averaging 21.4 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 9.3 assists on solid shooting through nine games. But he sprained his right ankle Saturday when he was crossed up by the Cavaliers’ De’Andre Hunter — and is questionable for Monday vs. San Antonio, per Joel Lorenzi of The Athletic.

If Giddey can’t go, it’s a big loss. He’s been Chicago’s engine so far.