Top 10 Dallas Mavericks draft day pickups since 2000

6. Dereck Lively II

Next up on the list is Dereck Lively II, the No. 12 overall pick from the 2023 NBA Draft. The 7-foot-1 rookie is the team's starting center and has done well in his first year. Lively II Ieads the team in offensive rebounds and blocks this season.

Lively II averages 8.1 points per game, 7.5 rebounds, and one block. He is also fourth amongst NBA rookies in rebounds and blocks.

Last week, NBA.com had Lively II fifth in NBA rookie rankings. They attributed his success on the offensive side of the ball. He dropped to eight this week, but that doesn't mean he hasn't had a good year.

In his first game of the season, Lively II dropped a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds. He topped those numbers at the beginning of November when he had 15 points and 14 rebounds against the Charlotte Hornets.

One thing that has stood out for him this season is his ability to make his presence known down low. Lively II can use his big body to finish in the pick and roll or help create second-chance opportunities for his teammates.

Lively II has also established a positive connection with Luka Doncic. The Dallas duo excellences in pick-and-roll situations.

Lively II will only continue to grow as he has been a massive blessing for the Mavs. He is clearly one of the most valuable players on the team, and he was dearly missed when he missed time due to an injury.