The Dallas Mavericks have officially picked up the fourth-year option on Dereck Lively II’s rookie scale contract.
The move, widely anticipated by league observers, secures Lively’s $7,239,130 salary for the 2026/27 season.
With the option exercised, the 7’1″ center will become eligible for a rookie scale extension in the summer of 2026. If no agreement is reached, he would enter restricted free agency in 2027.
Since entering the league, Lively has established himself as an important part of Dallas’ interior presence.
Over his first two seasons, he has averaged 8.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in 23.4 minutes per game, while shooting an efficient 72.9% from the field.
Despite his potential, health has been a recurring concern. Lively has been limited to 91 appearances (71 starts) in two seasons, including just 36 games in 2024/25 due to various injuries.
After undergoing a procedure in July to remove bone spurs from his right foot, the 21-year-old returned to action during the preseason and is expected to be fully available when the Mavericks open the season on Wednesday against San Antonio.
Mavs Exercise 2026/27 Option On Dereck Lively https://t.co/SsOfmU9E7F
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) October 20, 2025
