Dallas Mavericks rookie big man Dereck Lively II had a career-high tying 16 rebounds to go along with 16 points, two assists and one block on 88.9% shooting in the Mavs' 120-113 win over the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday.
Lively's strong performance earned him high praise from Mavs coach Jason Kidd, who said he asked the rookie to be extra aggressive on the boards and he delivered.
Kidd added that he has high expectations for Lively moving forward and that he will hold him accountable for being able to do that for the Mavs on a consistent basis.
Considered a developmental project coming out of college, Lively has been arguably a top-five rookie this season. Most would agree that his rim protection, rebounding and rim-running abilities have been a perfect fit on the Mavs' offense-heavy roster.
Through 20 games, Lively is averaging 9.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.6 steals and 1.6 blocks per game on 74.8% shooting.
Luka Doncic led the way for the Mavs with 35 points, eight rebounds, six assists, two steals, two blocks and five 3-pointers on 42.9% shooting. He was one of four Dallas players to finish with at least 16 points. Jaden Hardy also had a season-best 19 points.
The Mavs overcame a season-best 41-point performance from Memphis star big man Jaren Jackson Jr.
Monday's win marked the Mavs' third straight, while the loss marked the Grizzlies' second straight.
Dallas (14-8) next hosts the LA Lakers (14-9) on Tuesday.
Memphis (6-16) next faces the Houston Rockets (11-9) on the road on Wednesday.