Mavs, Dereck Lively II Look to 'Run It Back' in Year 2

The Dallas Mavericks had a lot to be proud of last season as they rode a wave of momentum in the second half of the year all the way to an NBA Finals appearance–the franchise's first since 2011. From the star backcourt of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving to the big-time trade additions of P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford at the deadline, there was no shortage of excitement for Mavs fans.

Out of all the good things that came Dallas' way last season, the immediate impact it saw from 20-year-old big man Dereck Lively II might have been the most satisfying development. In 55 games, Lively averaged 8.8 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks while shooting 74.7 percent from the floor in 23.5 minutes.

In the postseason, Livley averaged 7.9 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.0 block while shooting 67.4 percent from the floor in 22.0 minutes. Although Lively's scoring and efficiency took a hit, he was still able to post the second-highest postseason plus/minus rating for a rookie in league history at plus-98. San Antonio Spurs legend Manu Ginobili set the record in 2003 with a plus-191 rating.

When the Mavs traded back from the No. 10 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft to acquire Lively with the No. 12 pick, they knew he had a lot of intriguing potential. What they likely didn't know, though, is that Lively would solidify himself as a potential franchise cornerstone so early in his career.

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As good as Lively was in Year 1, though, the Mavs know that Year 2 has the potential to be even more special. Dallas improved its roster from the outside through free agency signings and the trade market, but the internal development of Livley will raise its ceiling even higher.