In the Dallas Mavericks’ 127-110 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday, rookie Dereck Lively II faced a tough matchup against Anthony Davis. Lively contributed 16 points and 11 rebounds but struggled to contain Davis, who finished with 28 points, 12 rebounds, and nine assists. Mavs coach Jason Kidd praised Davis’s high-level play.

The Mavericks adjusted their lineup in the second half, reducing Lively’s minutes, and emphasized defensive challenges when attempting to double-team Davis in the post. Lively highlighted defensive lapses, and the team struggled with perimeter shooting, going 11-40 from beyond the arc.With their game against the Golden State Warriors postponed due to a coach’s passing, the Mavericks will return to action against the Boston Celtics on Monday. Lively will face another tough frontcourt matchup against Kristaps Porzingis.