Mavericks may soon see Dereck Lively II unleash game-changing skill

When the Dallas Mavericks selected Dereck Lively II, they hoped to gain an athletic rim protector and lob finisher. They may not have expected how quickly he would expand his game. As the 2025–26 season approaches, Lively II seems ready to showcase a skill that could change Dallas’ offense: a reliable 3-point shot.

Discussions of this improvement have been ongoing since he began his career. Lively II has often expressed his desire to add range to his offensive game.

“If they leave me open in the corner, I’m going to get them up, for sure," Lively II said. "I’m definitely going to shoot threes in the future."

Dereck Lively II’s 3-point shot could change everything for Dallas

That confidence became real during the 2024 NBA Finals when he made his first career 3-pointer in Game 4 against the Boston Celtics. It was just one shot, but it indicated the start of a stretch-big skillset that fans have been waiting for him to unleash.

Head coach Jason Kidd sees this as the next logical step.

"The next step for his development is being able to shoot the three," Kidd said.

Lively II shares this view, emphasizing the mental side of the adjustment. “It’s just being more confident," Lively II said. "No matter if I’m getting the shot off rhythm or in rhythm, just being confident. Having the trust to take that shot."

This offseason, Mark Cuban has suggested that the Mavericks want Lively II to feel comfortable attempting 3-pointers in games, even up to two to three attempts per game, and potentially becoming a floor spacer. That’s a significant shift for a player drafted mainly as a rim-running center, but the potential benefits are clear. Having a shooting threat from the five spot forces defenses to approach Dallas differently.

Spacing is the biggest advantage. Opposing centers can’t stay in the paint if Lively II pulls them to the perimeter. That opens lanes for ball handlers to attack and gives cutters clearer paths. The pick-and-roll, already one of his strengths, becomes more versatile when it turns into a pick-and-pop. Defenders must decide whether he’s rolling hard or spotting up beyond the arc.

There’s also a durability benefit. By adding perimeter touches, Lively II could lessen the constant beating he takes inside. Over an 82-game season, that change might help him stay fresher and healthier. Additionally, there’s the emotional lift that would accompany his game if he adds a jumper; very few moments energize an arena like a seven-footer making a three.

Still, challenges remain. Lively II’s free-throw and mid-range percentages are inconsistent, raising questions about how quickly his deep shot will translate. He is also clear that he won’t rush it.

“I’m not gonna go out there and force shots," Lively II said. "I’m just waiting for my time."

That patience ensures his growth follows a natural path.

Even so, the Mavericks don’t need Lively II to become a high-volume shooter overnight. They just need him to be steady enough that defenses can’t overlook him. If he can consistently make open shots, it will create opportunities that Dallas has rarely seen from the center position.

As preseason nears, one of the team’s most intriguing storylines will be whether Lively II’s e-point shot becomes a genuine weapon, or if it remains hidden away. For a franchise entering a new phase, his development could provide the boost needed to enhance the offense to new heights.