Mavericks Center Expected to Make a Full Recovery Before Training Camp: Report

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Aug 21, 2025 7:00 AM ET

The Dallas Mavericks are getting ready for the 2025-26 NBA season. Fans received an update on the team's potential starting center, Dereck Lively II. The big man underwent an offseason surgery to address his foot injury. Last season, he appeared in 36 games and was limited due to the foot injury he sustained.

Lively couldn't make it back in time on the court before the front office traded All-Star guard Luka Doncic. By the t ime he was back on the floor, the regular season was near its end. He returned to action on April 2 against the Atlanta Hawks.

Following his prolonged absence, Lively was on the court for only four games. During that stretch, he averaged 5.5 points and 4.8 rebounds.

Lively is Expected to Make a Full Recovery

NBA insider Grant Afseth reported that the Mavericks are expecting Lively to be fully available before the start of training camp.

"Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II reportedly underwent offseason surgery to remove bone spurs in his right foot, but he is expected to be fully recovered in time for training camp," Afseth reported.

"The 21-year-old suffered a stress fracture in his right foot that was identified in January, resulting in him missing an extended period. The Mavericks and their medical staff deter mined a surgical clean-up would prevent the issue from recurring."

Lively had a promising rookie season, finishing sixth in the Rookie of the Year voting. However, he couldn't follow through the following season due to his foot injury.

In his third season, fans expect Lively to stay healthy and develop chemistry with All-Star forward Anthony Davis. He'll also share the floor with Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 pick of the 2025 NBA draft.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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