Dereck Lively II is a center for the Dallas Mavericks, wearing number 2 and serving as a rim-protecting, pick-and-roll big in Dallas's frontcourt rotation. Standing 7'0" and weighing 234 lbs, Lively brings elite size for the position. He played collegiately at Duke before entering the NBA Draft, where he was selected and has since developed into a meaningful rotation piece for the Mavericks.
Through 11 games this season, Lively is averaging 5.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game across 16.8 minutes, while posting 1.6 blocks per game, a strong figure for a center logging his level of minutes. His field goal percentage of 68.3% reflects efficient finishing near the basket, though his 42.4% free throw rate at the line represents a notable weakness when fouled. His plus-minus of 2.4 suggests a modest positive impact on Dallas's overall margin. For bettors, Lively's block total and rebound props are the most relevant angles given his defensive profile and interior role. His low free throw efficiency makes points props less reliable in close games where fouling increases, while his assist numbers suggest growing involvement in offensive actions as a roll man alongside Dallas's lead guards.
