The Dallas Mavericks recently wrapped up their regular season with a 50-32 record. Down the stretch, Dallas played some of their best brand of basketball since the Luka Doncic era and finished their last 20 games with a 16-4 record.
For what feels like the last few weeks of the regular season, the Mavericks were projected to face off against the LA Clippers until that became a reality on Sunday. This officially marks the third time in five seasons that fans have witnessed Dallas take on the Clippers in a first-round series and this could be the best one yet.
Barring any untimely injuries, Dallas could have a clear advantage over the Clippers with their recent trade deadline moves. Additionally, the Clippers are dealing with some unfortunate injury news to their star players, especially Kawhi Leonard.
Dereck Lively II was a full participant in practice ahead of 2024 NBA Playoffs
Outside of rookie center Dereck Lively II, the Mavericks have a fully healthy team. However, Lively II was a full participant in Tuesday’s practice, according to Jason Kidd.
Dereck Lively II went through a full practice today per Jason Kidd pic.twitter.com/QO0XjqgiKS
— Noah Weber (@noahweber00) April 16, 2024
Lively II suffered a knee sprain with just a few weeks left in the regular season, but seems to have bounced back after being a full participant in practice. To add more excitement to Mavericks fans, Lively II was pictured showing off his hops at that same practice.
oh? 👀 pic.twitter.com/bTMrxOEhhO
— All Things Mavs (@All_Things_Mavs) April 17, 2024
Obviously, nothing is confirmed yet as to what Lively II’s availability will be for game one on Sunday against the Clippers. But seeing Lively II be a full participant in practice with a little less than a week before Dallas’ toughest test of the season is a promising sign for his availability.
Since learning of Lively II’s recent health update, fans have clamored to Twitter to list their excitement about having the rookie big man potentially back in the lineup.
Having Lively II healthy and present in the upcoming playoff matchup vs the Clippers will be vital to the Mavericks’ success and the ceiling the team could have if they beat the Clippers.
Throughout the regular season, Lively II became an intricate part of the Mavericks system since the beginning of his rookie season. Having a lob threat of Lively II’s caliber will be a huge menace to the Clippers’ defense, even if Kawhi Leonard is healthy for game one. Additionally, Lively II has been very impactful on the defensive end for the Mavericks.
For more updates on Dereck Lively II and the Dallas Mavericks’ upcoming playoff series against the LA Clippers, stay plugged in.
