Last night, the Dallas Mavericks defeated the Atlanta Hawks at home, improving their record to 46-30.
Dallas was coming into this game coming off a loss to the Golden State Warriors, so getting a win was crucial considering how close the Western Conference is at the moment.
The atmosphere after a win is always great, but Mavs head coach Jason Kidd delivered some unfortunate injury news before the game that could impact the playoffs.
On Sunday, Mavs rookie big man Derek Lively II left the game early with what was described as knee pain. The injury's diagnosis was later changed to a right knee sprain, and Kidd gave fans some insight into Lively II's time out during his pregame press conference.
“I think it's two weeks away,” Kidd said of Lively II's injury. “I think he's on crutches, so hopefully he'll have a chance to play before the end of the season…I don't know if he'll be able to come back before the end of the season.”
It would be a huge blow if Lively II missed any of the playoffs, and he was a key part of the Mavs' rotation all season. Hearing that Lively II was on crutches was a shock to many considering the injury, which was initially reported as pain, came at the worst possible time.
Lively II has been a starter and off the bench for the Mavs this season, averaging 8.8 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.1 assists, 0.7 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game while shooting 74.7 percent from the field.
Lively II has exceeded everyone's expectations in a short amount of time, but injuries are starting to become a bit of a concern. He has experienced several sprains of his ankle, a minor injury to his back, and this latest knee sprain. While it's not ideal that Lively II has only played 55 games so far in his rookie year, this is the most games he's ever played in a long shot.
His body will need to adapt to playing this long 82-game season, but time will tell whether he becomes an injury-prone player or adapts accordingly. There's more reason to believe in the latter than the former, and Lively II is on track to be something special for the Mavs.
Be sure to check out the latest updates on Derek Lively II, Jason Kidd, and the Dallas Mavericks for the rest of the regular season and playoffs.
