Dereck Lively II, Mavs don’t reach rookie-scale contract extension before deadline: Source

Lively, 22, had season-ending right foot surgery in December, and it remains unclear when he'll return.

By Christian Clark and Joe Vardon · The Athletic

Published: Tuesday, 20 October 2026 at 12:06 AM

Key Things to Know

Dereck Lively II and the Mavericks failed to reach a rookie-scale contract extension before the deadline.
Lively is now set to become a restricted free agent in the summer of 2027.
Injuries to his right foot and ankle have limited Lively to 43 games over the past two-plus seasons.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Dereck Lively II and the Dallas Mavericks did not reach an agreement on a rookie-scale contract extension before Monday's deadline, according to a league source. The 22-year-old center, who was selected No. 12 overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, is now set to enter restricted free agency in the summer of 2027 if Dallas tenders him a qualifying offer.

Lively's recent career has been hindered by persistent lower body issues, including a stress fracture and multiple surgeries on his right foot and ankle. Team president Masai Ujiri noted the organization will remain patient regarding his return timeline, while Daniel Gafford and rookie Morez Johnson Jr. are expected to handle center duties.

Read the full article on The Athletic

Dereck Lively II, Mavs don’t reach rookie-scale contract extension before deadline: Source

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