Many believe that the Dallas Mavericks, led by superstar player Luka Doncic and his backup Kyrie Irving, will be formidable for years to come after reaching two Western Conference Finals and one NBA Finals in a three-year period. Klay Thompson became a Maverick in order to strengthen the Mavericks.
The youthful core of the Mavs will aid them in being a force in the competitive Western Conference for years to come, even with the big three players.
Coming off the bench, one of those Mavs players, who is just entering his rookie season, was crucial to the team’s success in making it to the 2024 Finals.
The Mavericks become an elite force for years to come thanks to Dereck Lively II.
Many weren’t sure how well Dereck Lively II would fit in Dallas straight away when the Mavs completed a trade with the Thunder to acquire the former 12th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Lively II performed better than expected the previous season and will continue to be an important member of the team.
Throughout the regular season, Lively II participated in 55 games and averaged 8.8 points, 6.9 rebounds, and an amazing 75% field goal shooting percentage. Lively II was a standout rookie for the Mavs. However, Lively II was at her best during the postseason.
Lively II averaged 7.9 points per game in 21 games during the 2024 Playoffs, ranking sixth among the Mavs players. With 7.4 rebounds per game and one blocked shot per game, Lively II tied for second place on the team in terms of rebound average.
Although Lively II’s mother passed away before the playoffs began, which may have affected his performance, his strength and toughness were never in question during the playoffs. Lively II, on the other hand, responded by contributing significantly to the Mavs team.
Prior to the Mavs’ matchup with the Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals, Lively II also didn’t hesitate to voice his opinions regarding the media’s prejudice against the team. In response, Lively II became the Timberwolves’ kryptonite, enabling the Mavs to dominate their opponent and make it all the way to the Finals. NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal was impressed by Lively II’s play and commented on how well he complemented Irving and Doncic.
Without a doubt, Lively II has enormous potential in Big D. It’s impossible to ignore his toughness, skill, will to succeed, and the attention he received from an NBA legend. Lievely II’s strong rookie campaign, which propelled him into the playoffs, has some people thinking he can advance to the next level and start all 16 games.
He’ll be an important member of Dallas’ team for many years to come because of his exceptional defense, rebounding, and basketball IQ. Lively II is already demonstrating why he will be an NBA star for many years to come. He plays with the skill of an experienced veteran.
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