Dallas Mavericks concerning injury update raises new questions about Dereck Lively II

The Dallas Mavericks released another concerning injury update on Dereck Lively II ahead of their December 6 road game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The team confirmed he is still dealing with swelling and discomfort in his right foot and has begun seeking multiple medical opinions.

The update signals growing uncertainty for the young center, who has now missed five straight games during a stretch where Dallas continues to manage several key injuries. The Mavericks ruled Lively out again for Friday, raising questions about what comes next for his long-term recovery.

Latest developments on Dereck Lively II and why the Mavericks are worried

The Mavericks revealed that Dereck Lively II remains sidelined with persistent right foot swelling and discomfort. Their communications team stated that he is consulting multiple specialists for guidance on a treatment plan. This follows last week’s announcement that he would be re-evaluated within 7–10 days.

Lively has appeared in only 98 of a possible 187 career games, and Friday’s absence marks his 188th missed game. His history of foot injuries adds further concern. Last January, he initially suffered what was described as an ankle sprain before testing later revealed a microfracture that required surgery. The recovery lasted more than two months.

He underwent another offseason procedure to remove bone spurs. With this latest update, concerns are growing that a third foot-related procedure could be looming. Local reports have noted frustration with the Mavericks’ training staff in previous seasons after internal issues related to credentialing and medical oversight. While the team has not commented on those claims, the pattern of recurring injuries has become a major storyline.

The Mavericks enter Friday’s matchup battling several injuries. Kyrie Irving remains out following ACL surgery. Dante Exum and Lively are also sidelined. P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford are questionable with ankle issues. Cooper Flagg is available after wearing a right thumb splint earlier in the week.

Trusted outlets including AP and ESPN noted that Dallas has struggled with consistency due to these overlapping setbacks. With a back-to-back set on December 6–7, the Mavericks may adjust key rotations to preserve health.

What this means for the Mavericks moving forward

Lively’s absence impacts Dallas on both ends of the floor. His rim protection, rebounding, and lob-threat finishing are central to their interior play. Without him, the Mavericks rely more heavily on Gafford and Washington, who are also managing injuries.

If evaluations suggest a long-term recovery path, Dallas may face extended rotation strain. Anthony Davis could carry a heavier defensive workload, though the team may opt to rest him selectively during congested scheduling.

The Mavericks will also need to navigate a challenging stretch of games as the Thunder, Rockets, and other Western Conference contenders crowd the December schedule. Stability in the frontcourt remains uncertain until the team receives definitive medical guidance on Lively’s condition.

The Dallas Mavericks concerning injury update highlights a growing issue for Dereck Lively II and creates uncertainty for a team already managing several key absences. The next round of medical evaluations will determine how long this setback lasts and how Dallas adjusts in the short term.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How serious is Dereck Lively II’s current injury?

He is dealing with swelling and discomfort in his right foot. Multiple specialists are reviewing his case to determine the next steps.

Q2: How many games has Lively missed in his career?

He has played 98 out of a possible 187 games. Friday’s absence brings the total to 188 missed games.

Q3: Who else is out for the Mavericks?

Kyrie Irving, Dante Exum, and Dereck Lively II are out. P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford are questionable.

Q4: Could Lively require another surgery?

The team has not confirmed that. However, the ongoing evaluations suggest they are exploring all treatment options.

Q5: How does this affect Dallas in the standings?

Injuries have disrupted lineup continuity. The team must rely on depth and careful rotation management to stay competitive.