Behind the Doncic-Irving tandem, it is a 20-year-old rookie who has established himself as the Mavericks’ best player! Derek Lively II never ceases to amaze and last night, in Game 4, he signed his second double-double of the Finals with 11 points and 12 rebounds in 22 minutes. Only one player in history had ever achieved several “double-doubles” in an NBA final at age 20 and under. Her name ? Magic Johnson!
“I think people forget he’s a rookie” confides Luka Doncic. “To see him progress like this is incredible. It’s so nice to see him play.”
With her enthusiasm and carefree attitude, Lively brings life to every entry on the field. Last night, that resulted in 7 offensive rebounds! That's almost twice as much as all the Celtics combined. And then, there is this 3-pointer from the start, which allows Dallas to take control. It's his first in his career. “It’s for her, up there” he answers referring to his mother, who died of cancer during the season. “She’s the one who helped me put it on. She helps me place my throws. She helps me do the right readings. And she's going to help me even more. »
He played point guard in high school!
This 3-pointer electrified his formation, especially as he followed it up behind with a counter and an alley-oop. “He can shoot and that’s the next step in his development” comments Jason Kidd at a press conference. “In AAU and high school, he shot, and he will explain to you that he played playmaker. He has all the qualities to break through, and for the moment, we are confining him to a role. »
In Boston, no player can match this energy, and Lively has the gift of putting the public in her pocket with her blocks and her big dunks. “He has this ability to give us second chances, to cause mistakes…” appreciates Kidd, while the kid takes up the boxing metaphor. “It doesn't matter how many times you go to the ground… You have to hit even harder than them. They always say you have to strike first, but the most important thing is how you get up and how you react to a blow. Do we give up or do we respond? »
Last night, the Mavericks responded!
