5 Things Dallas Mavericks fans should root for, 5 to root against to close season

2. For: Dereck Lively II to stay healthy

The Dallas Mavericks struck gold in the 2024 NBA Draft when they drafted Dereck Lively II with the No. 12 pick out of Duke. Mark Cuban said they needed a rim protector earlier that day, and that's exactly what they got later that day.

This season for Dallas, Lively II is 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 been a key piece of the rotation all season long, but his health has been a concern at times.

Lively II has battled multiple ankle injuries and a minor back injury and now is battling a knee injury. He has only played in 55 games this year, and him staying healthy will be crucial for the Mavs during this final stretch.

Even though he isn't the starting center anymore, his defensive impact off the bench and energy is unmatched. He has turned into a defensive leader as a rookie, and he alters every shot that the opposing team takes in the paint.

Offensively, Lively II is an elite lob threat and he has also added an effective hook shot. Having him on the floor with the second unit is important, and he can also play starter minutes when needed.

Hopefully Lively II's knee injury is nothing serious, and having him available for the playoffs is ideal.