Mavs Select Duke's Dereck Lively II at No. 12 in NBA Draft
Trade with Thunder Seals the Deal
The Dallas Mavericks have added a highly-touted prospect to their roster, selecting Duke center Dereck Lively II with the No. 12 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. The Mavs acquired the pick in a trade with the Oklahoma City Thunder, sending the rights to Serbian forward Nikola Radicevic and a future second-round pick in exchange.
Lively's Impressive Credentials
Lively, a 7-foot-1 center, is considered one of the top defensive prospects in this year's draft. He averaged 3.1 blocks per game in his lone season at Duke, showcasing exceptional rim protection and a knack for altering shots. His offensive game, while still developing, has shown promise with an efficient shooting stroke and a solid mid-range presence.
Mavs' Draft Strategy
The Mavs' selection of Lively aligns with their recent draft strategy of targeting players with high defensive potential. In recent years, they have selected several defensive-minded prospects, including Josh Green, Tyrell Terry, and Jaden Hardy. Lively's defensive prowess could provide a significant boost to a Dallas team that has struggled defensively at times.
Hometown Hero
For the Philadelphia native Lively, the chance to play in the NBA in his hometown is a dream come true. He attended Westtown School in nearby West Chester, Pennsylvania, before starring at Duke. His selection by the Mavericks has generated immense excitement among Philadelphia basketball fans.
Conclusion
The Mavericks' selection of Dereck Lively II is a strategic move that addresses a key need for their team. His defensive abilities could help stabilize a shaky defense, while his long-term potential is intriguing. With Lively now in their ranks, the Mavs have taken a significant step towards improving their future.
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