Dereck Lively II Remained Out For Mavericks Camp
The Dallas Mavericks center is sidelined as he recovers from his second right foot surgery in 14 months.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Basketball
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Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II remains unavailable for the start of training camp. The team has not yet determined if the 22-year-old will be ready for the regular season.
Why it matters
Lively is currently working through recovery from a recurring right foot injury that has significantly limited his playing time. His availability is critical for the Mavericks rotation given his defensive contributions.
Lively has averaged 8.4 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game throughout his career. The 22-year-old, who stands 7-foot-1 and weighs 230 pounds, was selected 12th in the 2023 NBA draft.
The players
Dereck Lively II
He is a 22-year-old center for the Dallas Mavericks who was selected with the 12th overall pick in the 2023 NBA draft.
Dallas Mavericks
This professional basketball team competes in the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association.
The details
The Mavericks are monitoring the recovery progress of the center, who appeared in only seven games during the 2025-26 NBA season. He is currently ramping up activity as he aims to be cleared for basketball participation.
Timeline
December 2025: Lively underwent his second right foot surgery.
September 26, 2026: The Dallas Mavericks begin training camp.
Roadmap
Lively’s injury struggles highlight the volatility in evaluating high-draft-pick health over the long term. His development remains a key variable for the Mavericks as the franchise balances long-term potential with current roster stability.
Lively's absence from training camp leaves a void in the Mavericks' frontcourt rotation that will likely increase the minutes required from backup centers. His ongoing recovery status complicates the team's depth chart as the regular season approaches.
The takeaway
Reliable health for key interior players remains a primary concern for teams looking to build consistency in the frontcourt. Developing a deep bench rotation is essential for squads managing recurring injury risks during long NBA seasons.
Further reading
For more updates on the roster, visit the Basketball section.
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