The Dallas Mavericks have advanced to the Western Conference Finals for the second time in three years, with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving playing pivotal roles in this achievement. However, much-deserved recognition is also being directed towards the team’s rookie center, Dereck Lively II. Despite being the 12th overall pick in the previous year’s draft, Lively was initially viewed as a player with potential but lacking refinement following a lackluster freshman season at Duke. The 20-year-old center has exceeded expectations in his rookie year, showcasing his value to the Mavericks, especially during the second-round series against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Throughout the season, the Thunder faced criticism for their weak interior presence, a deficiency highlighted in Game 6. Lively, who had an impressive performance in Game 5 with 11 points and 10 rebounds, outdid himself in the crucial Game 6. He contributed 12 points, 15 rebounds, and 3 assists in the Mavericks’ narrow 117-116 victory, placing him in esteemed company alongside legends Magic Johnson and David Robinson. As noted by ESPN research producer Matt Williams (@StatsWilliams on X), Lively’s achievement of at least 10 points and 15 rebounds in a playoff elimination victory aligns him with only Magic Johnson and David Robinson in NBA history.
There have been three rookies with at least 10 points and 15 rebounds in elimination wins.
Magic Johnson
David Robinson
Dereck Lively IIRookie making an IMPRESSIVE first impression 💪
(via @StatsWilliams) pic.twitter.com/VXiAhG8ocB
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 19, 2024
Mavericks teammates praise Dereck Lively II after big Game 6
While Dereck Lively II may be a new discovery for some NBA fans, his coach Jason Kidd and teammates from the Dallas Mavericks have been singing his praises throughout the season. Following Lively’s standout performance in Game 6, the accolades continued, with multiple players emphasizing his indispensable contribution to the team. Luka Doncic, in particular, lauded Lively’s impact, stating, “We don’t win this series without D-Live. He’s been playing amazing. For a rookie not being scared, it’s insane how he played, the way he impacts the game. Just amazing, man.” Doncic reiterated his admiration for Lively during a press conference with Kyrie Irving, highlighting the rookie’s remarkable performance and potential.
Derrick Jones Jr., who shared a light-hearted moment with Lively after Game 5, touched upon the passing of Lively’s mother in April and how Lively has admirably responded to this personal tragedy. Jones expressed his support for Lively, acknowledging the rookie’s resilience and positive attitude amidst adversity.As the Mavericks await their Western Conference Finals opponents, reminiscing about their previous encounter with the Golden State Warriors, they are set to face either the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets, or the Minnesota Timberwolves, who are making a rare appearance in the WCF. The Mavericks will kick off the series on the road, starting on Wednesday in either Denver or Minneapolis.
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