Overview
- Dallas said the procedure will be performed by Dr. James Calder in London, with the team projecting a full recovery by next season's training camp.
- Lively appeared in seven games this season, averaging 4.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.6 blocks in 16.4 minutes before his last outing on Nov. 21.
- The decision follows a series of setbacks that included a stress fracture last season and a July surgery to remove bone spurs.
- ESPN reported Lively sought second and third medical opinions before choosing surgery, and the Mavericks issued a supportive statement on his long‑term outlook.
- With Lively out, minutes at center shift to Anthony Davis and Daniel Gafford, and Dallas is eligible to apply for a $2.626 million Disabled Player Exception, pending league approval.