Dereck Lively II is diligently working through a challenging recovery from three foot surgeries over the past year as he prepares for the upcoming season. Mavericks GM Mike Schmitz praised Lively’s dedication to his rehabilitation, noting that he is consistently present at the facility and focused on improvement. Although he has made progress, including weightlifting and walking, Lively has not yet resumed running. With his extension eligibility approaching, the Mavs face a complex decision due to Lively's limited playing time since being drafted. Complicating matters further, Dallas has multiple big men on its roster who might influence Lively's contract status.

By the Numbers
  • Lively has undergone three foot surgeries in the last year.
  • He has played only 98 of 246 games since being drafted 12th overall in 2023.
Yes, But

While Lively's hard work is commendable, his injury history raises concerns about his long-term durability and value to the team, especially given the Mavericks' crowded frontcourt.

State of Play
  • Lively is currently engaged in rehabilitation, focusing on weightlifting and walking.
  • The Mavericks have several big men available, providing Lively with time to heal but complicating his potential extension.
What's Next

As the season approaches, Lively will need to accelerate his recovery progress to compete for a spot in training camp and secure an extension with the Mavericks.

Bottom Line

With Lively's current situation, the Mavericks must weigh potential performance against injury risks, making strategic decisions critical for the team's future.