‣ Luka Doncic and Dereck Lively II have developed a notable connection, with Doncic finding Lively to be a reliable partner on the court, leading to Lively receiving the most assists from Doncic this season.
‣ Dereck Lively II tied a rookie record set by Hakeem Olajuwon 29 years ago, showcasing his ability to perform at a high level by posting an impressive stat line in a game against Chicago, highlighting his strategic thinking and on-court chemistry with teammates.
Luka Doncic with a fake shot and finds Dereck Lively II for the SLAM 😱
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints)
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Everyone’s buzzing about Victor Wembanyama’s NBA debut. But, let’s not forget Chet Holmgren. Amidst the rookie hype, Dereck Lively II’s making waves with the Mavericks. Seriously, the guy’s a powerhouse.
The Spurs and Thunder have their stars, sure. But Dallas? They’ve snagged a gem in 7-foot-1 Dereck. Luka Doncic, the team’s superstar, took notice right away. According to Jason Kidd, their coach, it was like magic from the start. They clicked in September, finding rhythm and dunks aplenty.
Luka’s got an eye for talent. He saw Dereck could catch and finish like a pro. Trust was instant, like a quarterback to his receiver. And from there? Only up.
Opening Night was all about Wembanyama, but Dereck stole the show. Scoring 16 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and shooting with a precision that left jaws on the floor. Doncic remembered his first game jitters. Dereck? Cool as a cucumber and playing like a dream.
Their connection’s only grown. Dereck’s become Luka’s go-to guy, racking up assists left and right. One game, Luka dished out 7 assists to Dereck alone. The Mavs crushed the Bulls, by the way, 127 to 92.
Then there’s Lively II’s standout game. Tying a record set by Hakeem Olajuwon? No big deal. Just dropped 22 points and missed a single shot. Plus, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. Kid’s on fire.
Dereck’s got a strategy. It’s all about finding the gaps, making the plays. If Luka’s in a bind, Dereck’s ready. It’s a trust thing. And it’s working wonders.
He sees basketball as chess. If he moves here, the defense reacts, and he’s already thinking two steps ahead. It’s a dance, and he’s leading.
So, while the rookie spotlight might be crowded, Dereck Lively II’s making sure he’s not just another name. He’s a Maverick, through and through. And this? It’s just the beginning.
