Dereck Lively II, the Dallas Mavericks' center, is set to miss 2-3 months due to a fractured foot, a significant setback for a team eyeing a playoff push. Originally sidelined with an ankle sprain, Lively's recovery will likely keep him out for the remainder of the regular season, hampering the Mavericks' depth as they face a crucial rematch against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Luka Doncic, the franchise's star, has already been out for a month with a calf strain, although he is expected to return before the All-Star break. Kyrie Irving has also missed time this season, contributing to the Mavericks' challenging injury landscape. With Lively's impressive rookie stats of 9.1 points, 7.8 rebounds, and a league-leading shot-blocking presence, his absence is felt acutely on both ends of the floor. The team may need to explore trade options for a big man to maintain competitiveness until Lively's return.