5 Studs from Dallas Mavericks' suspenseful preseason loss to Utah Jazz

The Dallas Mavericks opened the preseason on Monday night with a loss to the Memphis Grizzlies at the American Airlines Center. Dallas stayed with Memphis for the majority of the game, but Dallas couldn't keep up with the star power of the Grizzlies as both Ja Morant and Desmond Bane played.

The Mavs were without Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, and Klay Thompson in that game, but that changed for Thursday night's game against the Utah Jazz. Both Thompson and Irving played, and Mavs fans were ecstatic to see him take the floor for the first time as a Maverick.

The vibes were excellent at the American Airlines Center, and the start of the NBA season is officially less than two weeks away.

5 Studs from Dallas Mavericks' suspenseful preseason loss to Utah Jazz

Although the Mavs took the 107-102 loss to Utah in this game, there were plenty of great takeaways to consider when analyzing Dallas' game. The Mavs went on a wild run to end the game and came out healthy once again.

Their starters continue to show out in their limited minutes, and several of their young players have taken the next step in their development.

5. Stud - Dereck Lively II

After a great game on Monday night, Lively II had another solid outing against the Jazz.

Lively II started the game strong, as his first bucket of the game was a slam after a pass from Klay Thompson, and he also had two blocks early. He left his mark on this game early on both ends, and he is becoming more complete of a player by the day.

Lively II's passing also continues to turn heads, as he seemingly always makes the right read. This was one of the biggest areas of growth from his rookie year, and his reads in the short roll make him extremely difficult to defend. He also showed an ability to pass to cutters when his back is to the basket, and his feel for the game is unheard of for a 20-year-old.

Lively II's stats aren't always going to stick out on the box score, but his impact on the game is as big as anyone on the team. His length, size, and athleticism help him alter countless shots on the paint and perimeter. He ended up finishing with four points, three rebounds, and two blocks, and he always brings great energy.

Lively II has been fearless when being forced to guard quicker players on the perimeter, and there are no holes in the youngster's game on the defensive end.