The Dallas Mavericks have initiated early-stage negotiations regarding a contract extension for center Dereck Lively II, according to NBA insider Marc Stein.
The 22-year-old big man is eligible to secure a new deal before Opening Night Eve of the 2026-27 regular season.
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If no agreement is reached, he will enter the final year of his rookie contract and head toward restricted free agency next summer.
Lively appeared in just seven games during the 2025-26 season before undergoing season-ending surgery on his right foot in December.
That limited sample size creates a unique dynamic when evaluating his contract value.
Drafted 12th overall in 2023 out of Duke, Lively played 55 games as a rookie and 36 games in his second season.
Over 98 career regular-season appearances, he has averaged 8.4 points on 72.5% shooting, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game.
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He played a pivotal role in Dallas's 2024 NBA Finals run.
The Mavericks view Lively as a core component of their long-term structure alongside reigning Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg.
The extension discussions coincide with broader roster stabilization under new head coach Dusty May.
The Mavericks continue to rebuff trade inquiries for veteran All-Star guard Kyrie Irving as he recovers from knee surgery.
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Meanwhile, the front office remains open to trading guard Klay Thompson, who has drawn interest from the Miami Heat.
