The Dallas Mavericks are just two days into training camp and already facing a handful of injuries across the roster. During a week focused on establishing defensive identity and testing lineup combinations, the team faces some limitations without key talents available.
On Media Day, Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd shared that the whole roster, aside from Kyrie Irving, is ready to participate in training camp. However, the circumstances have changed as injuries have occurred.
Daniel Gafford to Miss 2-3 Weeks
Kidd said Wednesday that center Daniel Gafford sprained his ankle and will be sidelined two to three weeks, leaving his status for the Oct. 22 season opener against the San Antonio Spurs uncertain.
“We have some guys who did not practice today,” Kidd said. “Gafford sprained his ankle yesterday, so he’s out for two to three weeks.”
Gafford averaged 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks in 57 games last season. His absence will cut into valuable time to build chemistry with Anthony Davis, who joined the Mavericks in February. The two shared the floor for only five games last season, with Davis missing time due to an adductor strain and Gafford sidelined by an MCL sprain.
More Dallas Mavericks Injuries
Kidd also said that guard Brandon Williams is out for one week with a hamstring strain. Williams averaged 8.3 points and 2.3 assists in 33 appearances last season, splitting time between a two-way and standard roster spot.
Danté Exum has yet to practice in camp, and Kyrie Irving remains out as well. However, the specific reason that has sidelined Exum is unclear. He re-signed with the Mavericks on a one-year deal worth around $2.3 million during free agency.
“B Will has a hamstring strain, so he’s out for a week,” Kidd said. “Danté has not practiced. And Kai’s out.
P.J. Washington, who averaged 14.7 points and 7.8 rebounds in 57 games last season, was held out Wednesday after bumping his head the previous day but is expected to return Friday. He recently inked a four-year, $88.8 million contract extension to remain in Dallas.
“PJ bumped his head yesterday, but he’ll be ready to go on Friday,” Kidd said.
Kidd said the injuries have not changed the team’s tone during the opening week of camp. “The approach hasn’t dipped,” he noted, pointing to communication and defensive focus as positives through two practices.
The Mavericks are holding camp in Vancouver before beginning preseason play. Dallas will open its preseason schedule Oct. 6 against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth.
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