Mavericks Rookie Lively Suffers Injury in Game 3

Dallas Mavericks rookie Dereck Lively II left Tuesday's Game 3 against the Minnesota Timberwolves after taking an inadvertent knee to the back of his head. The 20-year-old center exited the game in the second quarter and did not return.

**Dallas, TX** - The Dallas Mavericks' playoff hopes suffered a setback on Tuesday when rookie center Dereck Lively II exited Game 3 against the Minnesota Timberwolves with an injury.

Lively, the 20-year-old 7-footer, sustained the injury in the second quarter after taking an inadvertent knee to the back of his head from Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels. Lively immediately left the game and went to the locker room for further evaluation.

The Mavericks announced that Lively would not return to the game, and his status for the remainder of the series is uncertain. The extent of his injury is still being assessed, but head coach Jason Kidd has indicated that it is a matter of concern.

Lively has played a significant role for the Mavericks this season, averaging 6.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game. He has started all three games of the series against the Timberwolves, providing defensive presence and rim protection.

In Lively's absence, the Mavericks will likely turn to Maxi Kleber to fill the void at center. Kleber, a 6-foot-10 veteran, has been a solid contributor this season, averaging 5.7 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. He offers a different skillset than Lively, with a focus on perimeter defense and outside shooting.

The Mavericks are hoping that Lively's injury is not as severe as initially feared. The team is already without leading scorer Luka Dončić, who is sidelined with a calf strain. Losing Lively would be another major blow to their chances of advancing in the playoffs.

The Mavericks have shown resilience throughout the season, overcoming injuries to key players. They will need to dig deep once again and find a way to adjust without Lively's presence.

The Timberwolves hold a 2-1 lead in the series, with Game 4 set to take place on Thursday. The Mavericks will need to find a way to slow down Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns, who has been dominant in the first three games.

The injury to Lively is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the playoffs. Every team is susceptible to losing key players, and the Mavericks will need to find a way to overcome this setback.