Is Dereck Lively II Available to Play vs. the Celtics in Game 1? Latest Update on Mavericks Center’s Neck Injury

During WCF Game 3, youngster Dereck Lively of the Mavericks was struck by a knee in the back of the head. However, it was exacerbated worse in Game 5 by a blow to the head. But after the elimination game, the big guy gave a positive update on his circumstances.

The first incident happened during Dallas’ 116-107 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second quarter. When his knee touched Lively, center Karl-Anthony Towns sprang high, trying to seize the offensive board. The youngster was already on the floor after tumbling to the floor during a rebounding attempt.

Joey Mistretta of ClutchPoints posted Dereck Lively’s X remark. The novice looked everywhere and spoke the following: “I’m great. Everyone’s going to ask and everyone’s been asking for the past couple of days. I’m alright. You know, if I’m going to get hit in the head another three-four times, I’m still going to get back up and act like it didn’t happen.”

Lively played for twenty-five minutes in the elimination round. However, in attempting to stop Lively’s shot, Timberwolves center Naz Reid’s right hand made contact with his head. It occurred when Lively used a pump fake to lift Reid into the air, creating an uncomfortable angle that allowed the 6MOTY to block his shot.

Lively’s encouraging news calms supporters as the Mavericks get ready for their NBA Finals clash with the Boston Celtics. When the Mavericks play the club with the best regular season record in the league, they must be at their best.

Dereck Lively II Talked About His Neck Injury During Press Conference

According to WFAA’s Zachary Yanes, Dereck Lively assured supporters that he was doing OK after his injury event in WCF Game 3.

Lively said, “At first I was a little scared of a concussion. Because, you know, you get a knee to the back of the neck, the head. … It kind of just makes a chain reaction go down your back, go down your neck. So, just trying to be able to just be more cautious of my body.”

Dereck Lively has contributed significantly to the club throughout this postseason run. He offers a lob threat and rim protection. Despite being a first-year player in the NBA Playoffs, the Mavericks youngster has shown remarkable confidence thus far. Dereck Lively remains healthy despite having two physical contacts in his head region. The news that he won’t be losing playing time is encouraging.