Dereck Lively II is quickly becoming a household name in basketball circles, especially among the Dallas Mavericks faithful. Currently trending with over 500+ searches, Lively's recent performances, along with his potential to win major NBA awards, have catapulted him into the spotlight. The 7-foot-1 center has been turning heads early in the 2023-2024 NBA season with his versatility, defensive prowess, and a much-improved offensive skill set. Let's dive into why Dereck Lively II is generating so much buzz and what recent developments have contributed to his rising fame.
A Name to Watch in the NBA Awards Race
One of the most compelling reasons Dereck Lively II is trending is his legitimate case to win one of the NBA’s biggest awards. According to a piece from The Smoking Cuban, the Dallas Mavericks’ center is already making a strong case for the NBA’s Rookie of the Year award. In fact, Lively’s early performances have showcased his advanced defensive skills, a rare quality for a rookie big man. His combination of rim protection, rebounding, and ability to finish strong at the basket makes him a cornerstone for the Mavericks' future.
Lively's NBA debut was particularly eye-catching. He managed to record a double-double—16 points and 10 rebounds—while shooting 7-of-8 from the field, all in a game against the San Antonio Spurs. His defensive impact, combined with his impressive offensive efficiency, instantly made him a contender for Rookie of the Year honors. With more games like this, Lively could very well find himself in the conversation for this prestigious title.
For more on Lively's Rookie of the Year candidacy, check out the article here.
Adding New Dimensions to His Game
One of the key reasons behind Lively's rapid improvement is the work he has put into expanding his offensive arsenal. According to an article from Mavs.com, Lively has added a jump hook to his game, making him even more dangerous on the offensive end. The jump hook is a valuable weapon for a big man, allowing him to score over defenders in the post while maintaining a high shooting percentage.
This new wrinkle in his game complements his already formidable lob-finishing ability, making him a more versatile scorer. The jump hook also adds another layer to the Mavericks' offense, which already features superstar Luka Dončić. With Lively’s improved offensive capabilities, the Mavericks’ pick-and-roll game becomes even more lethal, giving opposing defenses a lot to think about.
Read more about how Lively’s jump hook is impacting his game here.
Competing for a Starting Role on the Mavericks
While Dereck Lively II’s offensive and defensive abilities are drawing a lot of attention, his role on the Mavericks is still evolving. In the season opener against the San Antonio Spurs, Lively didn’t start, as Daniel Gafford got the nod from head coach Jason Kidd. However, Kidd has not ruled out the possibility of Lively stepping into the starting role at some point this season.
Both Lively and Gafford have shown they can be interchangeable at the center position, depending on the team's needs on any given night. According to a report from The Dallas Morning News, Lively made the most of his minutes in the opener against the Spurs, and his performance may earn him more opportunities to start as the season progresses. This competition for the starting center role will be a storyline to watch for Mavericks fans and NBA observers alike.
For more insights on Lively’s competition for a starting role, check out the full article here.
An Exciting Future Ahead
Dereck Lively II’s early-season performances have put him on the map as one of the most exciting young players in the NBA. His defensive instincts, ability to score around the rim, and his newly added jump hook make him a unique talent. Whether he eventually earns the starting center role or becomes a key player off the bench, Lively's role in the Mavericks' future is secure.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Lively to see if he can maintain his high level of play and continue to develop his game. If he does, the Rookie of the Year talk may not just be speculation—it could become a reality.