The Mavericks have a huge problem aside from the Nick Harrison drama

The Dallas Mavericks they are trying to play quality basketball while also dealing with the vocal reaction of frustrated fans. it is it is not uncommon to hear “Fire Nico” chanted. at the American Airlines Center – something to do with the Mavs general manager Nico HarrisonThe decision to change Luka Doncic last season. However, there is another looming problem for this Mavs team.

Overall injuries have been a problem for the team over the last few seasons. Anthony Davis — who was acquired a season ago as part of Doncic’s deal — is particularly injury-prone. If the Mavericks decide to rebuild, some have done so he wondered if Davis would be traded — though that’s unlikely to happen this season.

AD is currently working with an injury. That’s unfortunate, but also not surprising given his injury history. The Mavs knew what they were getting when they traded for him. Davis’ injuries aren’t a new issue being addressed today, but we’ll look at it Derek Lively IIinability to stay on the floor.

The Mavericks have an injury problem with Derek Lively II

The future of the Dallas Mavericks is centered on it Cooper Flagg. Derek Lively II is also often mentioned as a key player who can help Dallas for years to come. However, Lively, a 21-year-old 7-foot-1 center, has had injury problems early in his career.

He is currently playing his third NBA season. His most games played in a single campaign is 55 — something he achieved in his freshman year. In the 2024-25 season, Lively was limited to a total of 36 games played. So far in the 2025-26 season, the Mavericks big man has appeared in just three contests.

Lively’s current knee sprain leaves him with no specific timeline for his return — although Jason Kidd recently said he hopes the center can return this week. Still, Lively’s injury concerns are something the Mavericks can’t ignore as they consider the future. In a perfect world, Lively would be fully healthy soon and avoid injury problems moving forward – but one has to wonder how realistic that is given his early career injury history.

From a talent standpoint, Lively offers intriguing potential. His size and rim protection make opposing shooters think twice about attacking the basket. Lively is a great lob finisher and continues to work on expanding his offensive game.

Dallas isn’t giving up on him anytime soon. However, if Derek Lively II continues to struggle to stay on the floor for the next year or two, the Mavericks may have to have a tough conversation.