Dereck Lively II Injury Update: Tests Come Back Clean, Availability for Game 4 Unclear

Mavs Rookie Ruled Out of Game 3 After Neck Sprain

Details on Lively II's Injury and Status for the Playoffs

Dallas Mavericks rookie Dereck Lively II underwent tests on his neck after leaving Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves early. The results of those tests have come back clean, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

However, Lively II's availability for Game 4, which is set for Tuesday night, remains unclear. Wojnarowski reported that the center's status is still being evaluated.

Lively II was injured in the second half of Game 3 when he collided with Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert. He immediately grabbed his neck and left the game. X-rays taken at halftime came back negative, but Lively II did not return to the game.

The Mavericks are hoping that Lively II will be cleared to play in Game 4. The 7-foot-1 center has been a key part of the team's success this season, averaging 9.3 points and 6.3 rebounds per game.

If Lively II is unable to play in Game 4, the Mavericks will likely turn to Maxi Kleber to start at center. Kleber has started 20 games this season and is averaging 7.0 points and 5.7 rebounds per game.

The Mavericks and Timberwolves are tied 1-1 in their Western Conference Finals series. Game 4 will be played in Dallas on Tuesday night.

Conclusion

The news of Lively II's neck injury is a setback for the Mavericks, but the clean results of his tests are a positive sign. The team will continue to evaluate his status and hope that he can be cleared to play in Game 4. If not, the Mavericks will have to find a way to replace his production without him.