Dwight Powell

Gafford will miss a third straight game with a lingering right ankle injury. The absence of him and Dereck Lively II means that Dwight Powell will be part of the rotation, serving mainly as Anthony Davis' backup. There's no need to consider adding Powell with a healthy AD in the fold.

Gafford has missed two straight and four of Dallas's last five games as his right ankle continues to be an issue. With Dereck Lively II (foot) done for the season, the Mavericks will continue to start Anthony Davis at the center position. Dwight Powell will pick up rotation minutes off the bench if Gafford remains out.

Lively was reportedly seeking other opinions last week, which is never a positive sign. He's expected to make a full recovery, but after appearing in just seven games, his third year in the NBA will end up as a lost one. Anthony Davis will be asked to spend more time at center, especially when Daniel Gafford isn't available. There will also be extra minutes for Moussa Cisse and Dwight Powell, though only as depth pieces. Lively will only be 22 years old at the start of next season and will be an enticing option in fantasy hoops. However, he can be safely dropped in redraft leagues at this point.

Gafford was initially doubtful for Saturday night, so the downgrade in status was expected. Anthony Davis will once again handle most of the available minutes at the center position, with Dwight Powell serving as his primary backup.

Gafford left Wednesday's game against the Heat in the second half with an ankle injury. Anthony Davis started at center Wednesday and will continue to do so in Gafford's absence. Dwight Powell could see rotation minutes, but isn't worth considering as a fantasy basketball streamer.