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Ivory CoastDallas Mavericks Center Dereck Lively II Out for Start of Training Camp
Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II is not cleared for training camp as he continues to recover from right foot surgery.
Camp Starts Without Lively
Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II will not be on the court when training camp opens this Saturday. The young big man has not been cleared to participate because he is still recovering from surgery on his right foot.
At this point, his status for the start of the regular season remains undecided. He is currently working on ramping up his physical work so he can get cleared for full basketball activities. Despite the delay, team sources indicate that Dallas is not discouraged by his current progress.
A History of Foot Trouble
Injuries have slowed down what started as a very promising career. Lively has struggled with recurring problems in his right foot, which has required two separate surgeries over the last 14 months.
These health issues have severely limited his time on the court. Over the last two seasons, Lively has been able to play in only 43 games total. His second foot surgery took place in December, ending his 2025-26 season after he played in only seven games.
What He Brings to Dallas
When Lively is healthy, he is an incredibly valuable asset for Dallas. The 22 year old center stands 7 feet 1 inch tall and weighs 230 pounds. He is known as an athletic player who finishes well at the rim and defends multiple positions.
During his rookie season, he was a key contributor during the Mavericks run to the 2024 NBA Finals. In his career so far, Lively has averaged 8.4 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in 22.9 minutes of action per game.
A Big Year Ahead
This upcoming season is a big one for Lively. The former number 12 pick in the 2023 draft is now entering the final year of his rookie contract.
If he can get healthy and stay on the court, he is projected to be a major piece of the long term core in Dallas. The Mavericks are hoping to build a championship contender around reigning Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg, and Lively's presence inside will be a major factor in those plans.
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