1 Worst-case, 1 realistic, 1 dream player comparison for Mavericks' Dereck Lively

The Dallas Mavericks crushed the 2023 NBA Draft. It started by trading back from ten to 12 to dump Davis Bertans’ contract on the Thunder. Dallas still selected their preferred target in former Duke center Dereck Lively II. The Mavericks surprisingly jumped back into the first round to take Olivier-Maxence Prosper at 24 for the price of Richaun Holmes' contract from the Kings.

Walking away with two first-round picks, a veteran big man hungry to prove he belongs in the rotation, and enough cap space to use the full mid-level exception was massive for the Mavericks. They still have work to do, including re-signing Kyrie Irving, but this was a strong start to a crucial offseason in Dallas.

Lively II is a talented big man that continues to improve. The Mavs desperately needed rebounding and rim protection help. He was the second-best shot blocker in this class behind top pick Victor Wembanyama. The 19-year-old is excited to play for the Mavericks, but what can fans expect from their new center.

Worst-case comparison for Dallas Mavericks big man Dereck Lively: Erick Dampier

MFFLs may not love to hear this one, but their numbers are quite similar when looking at their first college season. Dampier averaged significantly more points and rebounds per game, but their assists, steals, and blocks were nearly identical. The longtime Maverick did play 2.8 more minutes per game as they both had a strength of schedule in the 7.4 range per Sports Reference.

Dampier played three seasons at Mississippi State before being the tenth pick in the 1996 NBA Draft. He was primarily a starter during his seven years in Golden State before signing a seven-year deal with Dallas that is one of the worst contracts in NBA history. The 6’11 big man was overpaid, but he continued to rebound and protect the rim until 2010 when he was traded to the Bobcats for Tyson Chandler.

The Dallas Mavericks are hoping Dereck Lively can turn into more. Erick Dampier averaged 7.4 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks in 24.3 minutes per game during his 16-year NBA career. Dallas wants that longevity out of the 19-year-old but with a bit more production. At worst, he should be Dampier, but what is a more realistic comparison?

Realistic comparison: Mitchell Robinson

Robinson did not play college basketball, despite committing to Western Kentucky. He was projected to go in the top ten coming out of high school, but a full year off made him a mystery man in the 2018 NBA Draft and forced him to slip into the second round.

The seven-footer has a reported 7’4 wingspan and immediately made an impact on the defensive end. After five seasons, Robinson averages 8.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks in 24.4 minutes per game for his career. Fouls have been an issue, and they likely will be for Dereck Lively III early on.

The 19-year-old is an inch taller with a longer wingspan. Can he have the same defensive impact as Robinson in the NBA? That remains to be seen, but there are a lot of similarities. They are listed at similar weights and both have shown strong rim protection chops.

Do not expect Dereck Lively II to be this monster offensive player. He will be a rim-roller and lob target for Luka Doncic. The former Duke big man is looking to develop his jumper, but that will not be part of his game, especially early in his career.

Lively II could be better than Mitch Rob. What should fans expect if he reaches his ceiling?

Dream comparison: Tyson Chandler

The Mavs needed a defensive anchor and rim-protector in 2010 when they traded for Chandler, and he was a key part of the team’s only championship in franchise history. He spent two seasons in Dallas and is one of the team's greatest centers. The Mavericks would be ecstatic if Dereck Lively II became the next Tyson Chandler.

Vice president of basketball operations Michael Finley made the comparison during his press conference on draft night. Chandler was an All-Star, Defensive Player of the Year, and three-time All-Defensive selection, but that is the type of prospect teams hope to land in the top 12. It is a high bar, but one Lively II could reach if things break right.

Chandler lists at 7’0 and 235 pounds, which is one inch shorter and five pounds heavier than the 19-year-old. They are of similar size and athletic ability. It is an easy comparison to make, but Lively II needs time and improvement to reach Chandler's level. Luckily, the 19-year NBA veteran is a developmental coach for the Mavs, and he will be ready to teach the rookie the tricks of the trade.

The Dallas Mavericks selected a talented big man 12th overall and trading back helped them dump a bad contract and get a second first-round pick. It was a dream night for the team’s front office, and it positions them to improve their roster in free agency. Stay tuned to see how it all shakes out.