Mavericks' Center Depth Issues Exposed in Loss to Suns
The absence of center Dereck Lively II loomed large Friday night as the Dallas Mavericks suffered a heartbreaking 114-113 loss to the Phoenix Suns. Though the game ultimately came down to a single free throw, it highlighted a growing concern for the Mavericks: their lack of reliable center depth beyond their top two options.
The critical moment came with just 0.8 seconds left, when Daniel Gafford – already in foul trouble throughout the game – committed his sixth foul on Jusuf Nurkic during a crucial offensive rebound attempt. Nurkic’s subsequent free throw clinched the win for Phoenix, but the Mavericks’ issues went far deeper than that final sequence.
Nov 8, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) reacts in front of Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford (21) during the first quarter against the Phoenix Suns at American Airlines Center.
© Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
With Lively II sidelined and P.J. Washington also unavailable, Dallas leaned heavily on veteran Dwight Powell, who logged 25 minutes. Though Powell has been a dependable hustle player for Dallas over the years, the 32-year-old center isn’t the same dynamic pick-and-roll threat that Lively is, limiting Dallas’s offensive versatility.
The numbers reflect the struggle: while Dallas technically won the overall rebounding battle, they were outmatched 11-8 on the offensive glass, allowing crucial second-chance points for Phoenix. These hustle plays and extra possessions are precisely the kind of impact a more athletic Lively II typically provides.
This game exposes a larger roster issue for the Mavericks. While most contending teams have dependable two-way depth at center, Dallas is left vulnerable whenever Gafford or Lively II is unavailable – an issue made more concerning by Lively’s injury history this season.
Dallas had opportunities to address this depth concern during the offseason. Instead of using their final roster spot on Spencer Dinwiddie, they might have pursued another big man. Additionally, one of their two-way contract slots could have gone to a developmental center rather than guards Brandon Williams and Jazian Gortman.
One notable missed opportunity is Jamarion Sharp, who currently plays with the Texas Legends. At 7'5" with surprising mobility, Sharp’s shot-blocking and rebounding could have provided valuable minutes in emergencies like Friday night’s game.
To be clear, Dwight Powell’s value extends beyond the stat sheet. His leadership, experience, and knowledge of Dallas’s system are invaluable. However, expecting him to play significant minutes against elite Western Conference centers is no longer sustainable.
Dallas will hope for Lively II’s swift return, as his absence has exposed a clear gap in their roster construction. Until then, they’ll need to find creative solutions to their center depth issues – a problem that could become even more pronounced as the season progresses.
The good news is that Dallas has shown resilience and adaptability this season. The bad news? In today’s NBA, where size and rim protection remain vital, the Mavericks’ lack of a reliable third big man could prove costly in their playoff pursuit.
