Lively's Injury History Shapes Contract Talks | NBA News

Dereck Lively II, Dallas Mavericks’ defensive anchor and key rookie, faces a pivotal contract decision as he enters his final year of his rookie deal—plagued by injuries that’ve sidelined him for nearly half his young career. A misdiagnosed foot fracture, followed by two surgeries, derailed his second and third seasons. Now, the Mavericks are weighing a potential extension, possibly with injury-based performance clauses, mirroring deals like Zion’s. Lively’s impact when healthy—especially his Finals run—is undeniable, but his health history may push him toward a qualifying offer, giving the team cap flexibility while he proves he can stay on the court. Negotiations are far from over. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/58f5ad3cfb7e0528