Mavericks Practice Observations: Dereck Lively II and Klay Thompson Build Chemistry in Handoffs, and Key Takeaways

Dereck Lively II and Klay Thompson work on handoff drills as Mavericks refine chemistry ahead of preseason finale. Key practice insights and updates on player statuses.

Photo via Rashad Miller

DALLAS — After their 110-96 loss to the Clippers in Los Angeles, the Dallas Mavericks returned to their facility for practice on Wednesday, offering several intriguing observations during the open viewing portion.

It's unlikely that Luka Dončić or Maxi Kleber will play against the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday, marking the end of the Mavericks’ preseason schedule. Head coach Jason Kidd confirmed that Dončić participated fully in Wednesday’s practice, but his status remains uncertain.

"We'll see how he feels tomorrow, but he did the whole practice and did really, really well," Kidd said after Tuesday’s practice. "Most likely, he probably won't participate tomorrow. A lot of positives for him to go through practice, but we'll see how he feels tomorrow."

During Wednesday’s practice, Dončić mostly took catch-and-shoot jumpers, building on his two extensive workouts on Monday at Intuit Dome before the game against the Clippers.

Kleber continued his recovery from a left ankle sprain with non-contact work, focusing on conditioning and jump shots. The Mavericks remain focused on ensuring his regular season availability, and he is unlikely to face the Bucks.

Despite Dončić and Kleber likely sitting out the entire preseason, Kidd is optimistic about the Mavericks’ progress and saw many positives during Wednesday’s practice.

"No, it's not a big deal. It is what it is," Kidd noted. "He practiced today, and we move forward from what he did today. A lot of positives for him to go through the whole practice. He looked good. To your point, he hasn’t forgotten how to play basketball. His ability to make plays for others and for himself looked good, and we were all happy to see him out there. Klay and Kyrie did the whole practice. They were great. So, a lot of good stuff today."

In addition to Kleber's limited activity, the Mavericks were without Kessler Edwards, who did not practice due to a left ankle sprain, and Danté Exum, who remains sidelined after wrist surgery.

Lively and Klay Work on Handoffs

The Mavericks are continuing to adjust after adding Klay Thompson to the roster this offseason. While the team has yet to see Thompson play alongside Dončić and Kyrie Irving against external competition, his integration remains a priority.

As the Mavericks continue to adjust to Thompson’s integration, P.J. Washington shared insights on Thompson’s progress and his excitement for how the pieces will fit when Dončić plays.

"I think he's been doing great," Washington said. "Obviously, it's been tough not playing with Luka and Kyrie, but just trying to learn our plays, learn spots, and get into spacing. I think it'll come for him. As soon as those guys get back out there, it's gonna be a lot easier for everybody."