Dereck Lively Injury Update: Mavericks Faces Major Setback with Star Center’s Foot Concerns Jeopardizing His Comeback

Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively will be out indefinitely due to a foot injury. Lively will also reportedly get multiple medical opinions about the persistent swelling and discomfort in his right foot. According to Dallas Hoops Journal's Grant Afseth on Thursday, the latest announcement puts Lively's potential return this season in jeopardy.

Per Afseth, the Mavericks said there is no timetable for the 7-foot-1 center's recovery, and updates will be provided "as appropriate."

Lively has appeared in only seven games this season, averaging 4.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.9 assists. In the offseason, the 21-year-old big man underwent surgery to address bone spurs in his right foot.

However, he suffered several injuries as the season progressed. He last played during the Mavericks' 118-115 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Nov. 21.

Afseth said Dallas does not believe Lively's foot issue is a significant injury. However, the team will exercise caution as he seeks other medical opinions.

"Despite the prolonged symptoms, the organization has not expressed concern that the injury is a long-term, season-limiting issue, though uncertainty remains about Lively’s next steps," Afseth wrote. "The severity must still be clarified before any timetable can be established."

Mavericks face a huge hole in Dereck Lively's prolonged absence

With the uncertainty of Dereck Lively's injury, the Dallas Mavericks will have to rely on their other big men to fill the void. However, the team has been hounded by several injuries to its frontcourt players. Nine-time All-Star Anthony Davis was sidelined for nearly a month due to a left calf strain.

Davis will likely get extended minutes at center with Lively sidelined. Reserve big man Daniel Gafford, who has started 12 of the 15 games he has played in, left Wednesday's game due to a right ankle injury.

Should Gafford be unavailable, Dallas will be forced to play small against the defending champions, the OKC Thunder, on Friday. Dereck Lively's injury news is a big blow to the Mavericks, who have strung together three straight wins to improve to 8-15.