Mavericks Downgrade Dereck Lively II to Doubtful Before Matchup Against Bulls
Dereck Lively II downgraded to doubtful with a shoulder sprain, adding to the Mavericks’ frontcourt challenges as they face the Bulls without key defenders.
DALLAS — As the Dallas Mavericks prepare to face the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday night, they’ll need to adjust with P.J. Washington ruled out due to a right knee sprain and Dereck Lively II downgraded to doubtful with a right shoulder sprain, potentially missing his second consecutive game.
With Lively downgraded to doubtful, the Mavericks are dealing with an additional challenge in the frontcourt. Lively was a late scratch from Monday’s game, and while Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd noted that the second-year center had an MRI scheduled, the exact timing of the injury remains uncertain.
Lively went through his pregame workout on Monday and was initially absent from the injury report but was ruled out before tipoff.
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“I don’t know exactly when he got hurt,” Kidd said after Monday’s game. “He was scratched right before our meeting, so they’ll have pictures on his shoulder tomorrow to see what’s going on.”
Lively, who has played in six games, has averaged 9.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in 23.0 minutes. He remains an integral element of how the team protects the paint and rebounds while continuing to be a highly efficient paint finisher.
The Mavericks are without Danté Exum (right wrist surgery) and Maxi Kleber (right hamstring strain), both of whom remain sidelined without a clear timetable for return. As frontcourt injuries mount, the Mavericks are limited in their center options. Washington’s role as a small-ball five had helped, but with him and Kleber out, the team faces a challenge managing the center position effectively.
Dwight Powell has seen increased minutes over the past three games and will likely continue to play a more significant role if Lively cannot suit up.
For the Bulls, Zach LaVine is listed as questionable with a right adductor strain, Lonzo Ball is out with a right wrist sprain, while Patrick Williams (right shoulder strain) and Josh Giddey (non-COVID illness) are probable.
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