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Luka Doncic, Mavs Praise Rookies Dereck Lively II, O-Max Prosper: 'They Work Hard & Listen'

Originally posted on FanNation Dallas Basketball
By Grant Afseth | Last updated 9/27/23

DALLAS — It hasn't taken long for Dallas Mavericks rookies Dereck Lively II and Olivier-Maxence Prosper to generate optimism for what they can achieve in Year 1. Both players received reps with the starters in scrimmages on Wednesday, with a real chance to earn a substantial role during the season.

"We're going to start with those two rookies playing with the big group, and then we'll make some adjustments with Josh [Green] getting with that group," Mavs coach Jason Kidd said on Wednesday.

Lively and Prosper have put in a lot of work at the Mavs' practice facility since August. Both players have impressed the coaching staff with their work ethic and displayed understanding of what the team seeks from them.

"They've done everything we've asked them," Kidd said. "You look at Lively and the things that he's done since August, he's taken a big jump for us. Being able to play with Luka in the pickup games, there's some excitement between those two."

Doncic had praise for both rookies after Wednesday's practice, particularly highlighting the early connection he has with Lively. Given the importance of pick-and-roll sequences to the Mavs' offense, Doncic being encouraged by what Lively can achieve should be real reason for optimism.

"Both of the rookies, they're great so far," Doncic said. "We played two pickup games and they were great. The connection between me and Lively — he follows really good, which I was impressed."

Based on what Kidd has seen so far, Kidd anticipates there being a real chance that one of Lively or Prosper will earn a starting role early on. For now, he wants to see how they handle competing alongside Doncic, Irving, and Williams. If the results are favorable, it may suggest the potential to handle immediate responsibilities.

"I think the big thing is, O-Max and those guys and D-Live have worked extremely hard," Kidd said. "I think when we talk about starting them, one of them probably will be a starter. I want to see how they react to playing with Kai and Luka and Grant, and so far, so good.”

Kidd isn't concerned about the possible downside that comes with relying on young players. He views having the presence of Doncic, Irving, and other important veteran role players, as being helpful to speed up the learning curve as the rookies adjust to NBA competition and responsibilities.

"I think it's a great situation," Kidd said of relying on young talent. "Having the luxury of having Luka and Kai, you talk about two of the best in the league, and then being able to have pieces like Tim Hardaway Jr. and Grant Williams — vets who could help the younger core.

"When you talk about Josh, Hardy and the two rooks, it's a great balance," Kidd explained. "I think Nico [Harrison] has done an incredible job of being able to get athletic, young, and pieces that fit around Kai and Luka."

After a down season with a lack of production at the center position, Lively presents a possible long-term solution, with a potential immediate need for impact. At 7-foot-1 with a 7-foot-7 wingspan and agility, he presents an option to execute the team's Channel 1 ball screen coverage in a way that other options like Dwight Powell and Richaun Holmes are limited due to a disparity in physical intangibles. Lively can play up to the level to contest the possible pull-up and can handle Veer switching when the situation calls for it.

"I think just his ability to comprehend the different defenses, when you look at the Channel 1s and then also being able to be on the perimeter as a seven-foot guy and be able to guard the ball, it gives us the opportunity to be able to switch a little bit more," Kidd said of Lively. "I trust for him to be able to guard the ball and being able to not give up 3s. He's done a really good job with that so far."

Doncic envisions the Mavs' rookies receiving playing under coach Jason Kidd if they continue to work hard. He is encouraged by how both Lively and Prosper are receptive to coaching and leadership.

"If they work hard, they're going to get minutes, for sure," Doncic said. "Jason is going to give them an opportunity, but as I said, they both fight really well from what I saw from them. I didn't see much yet. So far, it's been great. They listen to you and that's all you need."

The first few preseason games the Mavs' rookies will be able to showcase their impact will be on Oct. 5 & 7 against the Minnesota Timberwolves in Abu Dhabi.