Mavericks' never-ending starting lineup battle is getting tougher by the day

As the Dallas Mavericks headed into their game last night at home against the San Antonio Spurs, the team was desperately looking for a win to snap their four-game losing streak.

After losing four consecutive games by a single possession, the Mavericks earned themselves a 110-93 victory over the Spurs, and it was the Mavericks' second win already against the Spurs this season.

In the win, the Mavericks got an excellent performance from Daniel Gafford off the bench. Although Dereck Lively II started the game, Gafford's performance could cause Jason Kidd to yet again be in a tough position when picking who to start at the center position moving forward.

Mavericks' starting center battle continues with massive Gafford game

Against the Spurs, Gafford was tied for the most points with Kyrie Irving in the game with 22 points. In 18 minutes off the bench, Gafford went an impressive 9-10 from the field and also knocked down all four of his free throws. Gafford's near-perfect night has put Kidd in a tough position on who to start with at the center, and Kidd talked about the center position postgame after the win.

"We'll see how D-Live handles these next couple of games as a starter and figure out who's going to start after that," Kidd said.

Gafford was scoring at will down low, finishing at the rim with powerful dunks, and protecting the rim, and he had his most dominant game of the season off the bench. Lively II started and finished with seven points and four blocks.

Although Maverick fans have been wanting Lively II to start at center since his great 2024 playoff run, Lively II still is having some struggles. Lively II struggled against the Utah Jazz on Thursday as his foul trouble hurt Dallas. Lively II is also getting his feet wet again after sustaining a shoulder sprain, so he's getting comfortable with playing again.

Gafford is more experienced in not only the NB but in the starting lineup. Gafford's experience was a big part of the Mavericks' playoff success last season. With Gafford being more experienced than Lively II, it could cause Kidd to want to have experience in the starting lineup to pair with Luka Doncic and Irving.

Lively II was also off to a strong start playing off the bench to make an early case for Sixth Man of the Year. With Lively II succeeding at coming off the bench, it might be a better option for Lively II to be coming off the bench and let Gafford start.

There are plenty of pros and cons for both players starting, and either way Dallas is in a great spot at the five.

The Mavericks' center position has turned into one of their biggest strengths, and Kidd has made it clear who is starting moving forward.

"Right now, D-Live is the starter," Kidd said.

This could end up changing after a couple of games, but Kidd is rolling with Lively II for the time being. He has two excellent options in front of him, and big performances from the big who comes off the bench puts him in a tough position on who to start moving forward.