The Mavericks center Dereck Lively II walked off the court in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals against the Timberwolves on Sunday after suffering from a violent head injury. Medical professionals escorted the young NBA star off the court after getting struck in the head by Karl-Anthony Towns’ knee in the first half of the game. This major collision happened as Mike Conley was driving to get a missed shot when KAT was pursuing an offensive rebound. It pushed his head forward, after which people saw him clutching his head, with everyone thinking he suffered a major concussion. Just minutes later, we saw Dwight Powell replacing him. Upon further evaluation, it was revealed that he suffered a neck sprain, and that was the last we all saw of him.

Dereck accumulated 6 points and 3 rebounds off the bench. The rookie was playing with vigor and unmatched energy that severely troubled Minnesota. But the brutality of it is now leading everyone to think that Lively II might not be coming back for the next matchup, which also happens to be the most crucial one for his team. The Dallas side is just one game away from making it to the NBA Finals, their first one since 2011.

NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski came out with the most recent update on the 20-year-old’s availability for Game 4. He took to X to share that he might not be able to play in the upcoming match on Monday. “Tests returned OK on Dereck Lively II’s neck but his availability for Game 4 remains unclear, source tells ESPN”.

Dereck went under scans right after heading to the locker room, soon after which the update came in. As crucial as Dereck is to the team, his absence in Game 4 will surely be missed as his teammates hope for a swift recovery for the rookie. He’s been a key player for the Dallas side, stepping in the shoes of other injured players such as Maxi Kleber. He has stood up for the team with his defensive best, and without him, the task of going ahead at full steam might become daunting. His incredible performance has gotten him and the team as many as 20 rebounds against the Minnesota side. In fact, he has averaged 10 points in three games.

Interestingly enough, with his passion and tremendous vigor added to his gameplay, he has yet to miss a shot in any of these contests. Additionally, his size and brute strength make him a superior disruptor, and a solid presence to have when Daniel Gafford is off the floor.

However, the Mavericks aren’t ones to fall under such excruciating pressure. Luka Doncic and KAI have ensured Dallas sits comfortably in this series. All that remains is to persevere in one of the four remaining games.

How do the Mavericks withstand the loss of Dereck Lively II?

Lively was and still is an important part of the Dallas rotation, especially in the postseason. The rookie center is dynamic and proactive when battling for rebounds. During the regular season, he averaged 2,5 offensive rebounds per game, critical toward the Mavericks’ resilience and toughness as a team. Not only did he provide additional possessions, but Lively’s efficient 74.7% shooting percentage provided the Mavericks with a competent inside scorer.

His physical gifts also allowed him to be a moderate shot blocker and an ingenious post defender. With his availability for Game 4 being a blur, Jason Kidd has the job of devising a new strategy to compensate for the possible loss. The Mavericks are especially depleted at the center position with stretch-five Maxi Kleber also out for the season.

This only leaves Dwight Powell, a traditional and passive center who can play some crucial minutes for the team. Taking Dereck Lively II’s place today, Powell played eight minutes and added 2 points and 2 rebounds. He isn’t a gifted scorer or a tireless rebounder like the rookie, however, the long-time Mavericks servant is a veteran in such situations. Kidd will use his ability to trouble the Wolves’ defense and disrupt their schemes.

Do you think the Mavericks can live without the fervor of Lively? If you like such content, you should definitely check out our exclusive interview with super agent Leonard Armato as he talks about the future of Inside the NBA on TNT. Check out the video down below.