Dereck Lively II's most overlooked skill is key for Mavericks' Finals return

It's no secret that Dereck Lively II will play a huge role in the Dallas Mavericks' quest to make a return to the NBA Finals this upcoming season.

Lively II is coming off a huge rookie season that saw him average 8.8 points, seven rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game. He also led all rookies in field goal percentage at 74.7 percent on the season. This number would have been good enough to put him first in the league in field goal efficiency had he played enough games.

Despite impressing many fans during the regular season, Lively II only elevated his play more during the playoffs. Not only did the seven-footer become indispensable for Dallas in their journey to the Finals, but Lively II showed off his shooting ability in Game 4 of the NBA Finals as he effortlessly drained the first 3-pointer of his career.

While Lively II didn't start for the Mavericks in the playoffs, it became evident how important his presence was on the floor.

Dereck Lively II's passing is key to Dallas' success this season

When the Mavericks drafted Lively II with the 12th pick in last year's NBA Draft, the team understood that the big man had an uncanny ability to block shots and roll to the hoop. Not only did Dallas select Lively II for his blocking and rolling abilities, but they also understood that the former Blue Devil had the tools to become a solid passer in the league.

Last season, Lively II flashed his playmaking abilities in the short roll finding shooters in the corner and cutters slashing from the wings. Often, Lively II's ability to get downhill quickly would cause the defense to collapse leaving one or more shooters in the strong side corner.

With the addition of Klay Thompson on the perimeter, Lively II's playmaking abilities will only progress. Not only will this future connection benefit Lively II, but it could help Klay Thompson's shooting numbers rise again.

During the playoffs, the Mavericks struggled to make shots on the perimeter outside of their superstars Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, which made Lively II's short rolls more predictable in the Finals series against the Boston Celtics.

With Thompson in Dallas, Lively II's playmaking and shot creation will only begin to scratch the surface of its potential which will only benefit the Mavericks.

Not only is Lively II an elite threat at making the quick pass in the short roll but he's also known to dish the ball in the paint to open cutters. P.J. Washington and Derrick Jones Jr. became the biggest beneficiaries of the young rookie's passing abilities.

This season, Washington will continue to seek passes from the sophomore center and Naji Marshall could also become a sneaky candidate to receive these post-up passes on the cut.

In addition to his playmaking ability being a key factor in Dallas' success this season, Lively II flashed a dribble package that fans haven't seen in the Mavericks' first preseason game.

While this was one of the few times Lively II has had the opportunity to take the ball coast to coast, it was by far his most impressive attempt at showcasing his bag.

If Lively II continues to develop his shooting, playmaking, and dribbling skills, Dallas will have a future star on their hands.