The Dallas Mavericks are facing growing concern over center Dereck Lively II, who was held out of Monday’s game in Miami due to right foot management, according to NBA insider Marc Stein.
Lively has appeared in seven of 19 games this season due to a knee issue.
Lively, a key defensive presence for Dallas, averages 4.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks in 16.4 minutes per game this season.
His absence further strains a Mavericks roster struggling at 5-14, which has relied heavily on Anthony Davis’ 20.8 points and 10.2 rebounds per game in five appearances.
Without Lively, the Mavericks’ rim protection and interior presence have been limited, forcing more minutes for Daniel Gafford, Dwight Powell, and Caleb Martin.
The Mavericks hope to get clarity on Lively’s condition in the coming days.
