Mavericks' starting lineup dilemma has a surprisingly simple answer

Given Dereck Lively II's injury history at this point in his young career, there's been debate over whether he should start over Daniel Gafford for the Dallas Mavericks, but it's clear that the most viable solution at starting center for Dallas going forward is with Lively II leading the way.

Gafford has proven to be a two-way paint beast during his time in Dallas, and he honestly has a more polished offensive game compared to Lively II in terms of his post-up ability and being able to attack the rim. However, Lively II is far more lengthier and rangier at 7-foot-1, as he's a better rim protector compared to Gafford, and is quicker when defending in space.

Lively II's offensive potential is what makes him really intriguing, though, as he's proven to be a great passer in the short-roll for a big man, and has a 3-point shot in the works that can hopefully be showcased on a consistent basis one day.

Lively II is Dallas' best solution at center going forward

For Dallas' long-term vision around Cooper Flagg to work, Lively II being the starting center is ideal. He's more versatile compared to Gafford on defense, and he's theoretically more versatile on the offensive end as well, especially if his jumper comes along. Flagg and Lively II also have the Duke connection together, and have already formed a great relationship off the court, which should translate well to the pick-and-roll when they get on the court together more.

The only crutch threatening Lively II being Dallas' long-term starting center is his health. He's played in less than 40 percent of available games in his young career, and has had recurring issues with his right foot dating back to a year and a half ago.

Gafford is certainly equipped to be Dallas' starting center if need be, as he's even been more impactful than Lively II throughout certain stretches when they've both been healthy. However, he doesn't have nearly as much potential compared to Lively II, given he's already 27 years old, and isn't better defensively despite being a solid rim protector.

This solution depends heavily on Lively II's health

With Lively II only being 22 years old, it'd be a shame if Dallas doesn't capitalize on his potential, as he projects to be one of Dallas' only lottery picks from this decade, and has already built a seamless connection with Flagg off the court. Dallas can't afford for Lively II to continue to be hurt all the time, even though they can't control fate.

Lively II continuing to be injury-prone would make trading Gafford a far riskier proposition, whereas Dallas may be able to trade Gafford's deal for wing/guard help at some point if Lively II could string together a healthy stretch.

Despite coming into this past season with a three-headed monster at big man with Lively II, Gafford, and Anthony Davis, Dallas' center position is once again a point of contention, which primarily stems from Lively II's health woes. Him capitalizing upon his potential is the best solution for Dallas in the short and long-term, as his ceiling is through the roof, but the Mavericks will have to rely upon uncontrollable factors here.

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