5 Studs from Mavericks' NBA Finals clinching win over Timberwolves

4. Stud - Dereck Lively II

The Dallas Mavericks were without Dereck Lively II for Game 4 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, and it put them at a bigger disadvantage than anyone could have imagined. Lively II missed Game 4 with a neck sprain that he suffered in Game 3, and the fact that a rookie is making this big of an impact in the NBA Playoffs is unbelievable.

Lively II's impact on both ends of the floor all playoffs long has been excellent, and he showed just how much he can impact the game in Game 5.

Lively II finished with five points, six rebounds, and one assist in the first half, and he will be a huge piece for Dallas in the NBA Finals.

Lively II's night was thrown off a bit when he was hit in the head by Naz Reid, but he ended up staying in the game. This was a scary play considering what Lively II went through in Game 3, and him being okay was huge for Dallas.

All in all, Lively II finished with nine points, eight rebounds, three assists, and three blocks, and a dunk late capped off his great performance.

Lively II's rim protection and passing out of the short roll will be put to the test against the Boston Celtics, and his defense in space will be much needed in that series. He's improved greatly in that area, and Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis at times will be a big test for him.