Dereck Lively II Undergoes Foot Surgery, Expected to Recover Before Training Camp

Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II recently underwent a minor surgical procedure to address bone spurs in his right foot, according to reports.

The surgery is not considered a major concern, and Lively is anticipated to be fully recovered and ready for the commencement of training camp in September.

Lively has faced injury challenges earlier in his NBA tenure, including missing over two months last season due to a stress fracture in the same foot. He has participated in 91 regular-season games over his initial two seasons.

Despite his injury history, the seven-foot center is viewed as a vital component of the Mavericks’ future strategy, owing to his defensive abilities and rim protection.

He is among three key Mavericks players who are currently recuperating from injuries during the offseason. Star guard Kyrie Irving suffered a torn ACL towards the end of last season and is projected to miss a significant portion, if not all, of the upcoming 2025–26 season.

Veteran forward Anthony Davis is also in recovery following surgery to repair a detached retina. Davis is also on track to be prepared for the start of training camp.

The Mavericks are heading into the 2025–26 season with a significantly revised roster and heightened expectations. The addition of number one overall pick Cooper Flagg has generated renewed enthusiasm for the franchise.

Flagg will be part of a frontcourt lineup that includes Dereck Lively II, Daniel Gafford, and P.J. Washington, thereby bolstering Dallas’s depth and versatility.

While health considerations persist, the combination of emerging talent and seasoned leadership provides the Mavericks with a solid base as they approach a potentially pivotal season.

Although Lively did not secure the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award, he is poised to play a significant role within a Mavericks team brimming with potential.