Mavs' Lively to undergo season-ending foot surgery

Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II will undergo season-ending surgery on his right foot, the team announced Wednesday.

Lively is expected to make a full recovery and be ready for the start of training camp.

The big man sought a second and third opinion before deciding to have surgery, according to ESPN's Tim MacMahon.

It's the same foot that Lively required a procedure on last summer.

"Dereck has handled every challenge of this season with professionalism and resilience," Mavericks co-interim general manager Matt Riccardi said in a statement obtained by NBA insider Marc Stein.

"While this is a setback, we're confident in his long-term future and will support him fully through his recovery."

The Duke product finished sixth in Rookie of the Year voting two seasons ago but has struggled to stay healthy throughout his young career.

Lively made just seven appearances this season, averaging 4.3 points, 5.3 boards, and 1.6 blocks.

The Mavs are already without starting center Daniel Gafford.