WATCH: Dereck Lively II leaves Game 3 after being struck on head by knee

Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II exited Sunday's playoff game against the Timberwolves after receiving an accidental knee to the back of his head from Minnesota's Karl-Anthony Towns. The incident occurred during the second quarter, with Dallas leading 43-33.

Lively slumped backward towards the court after arguing Mike Conley Jr. missed jump jumper. As he tumbled to the ground, the back of his head collided with Towns' right knee as Towns tried to retrieve the rebound. Lively's head pulled forward, and he stayed down on the court for a few seconds. He was ultimately able to stand and exit the court with the assistance of his teammates. He was dizzy and went directly to the changing room. 

Watch here the full video:

Dereck Lively II is down on the ground after suffering an apparent head injury.



Prayers up for D-Live 🙏



pic.twitter.com/ZMSmbs1tnY

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 27, 2024

Dereck Lively II was assisted to the Mavericks’ locker room after being kneed in the back of the head by Karl-Anthony Towns. Scary play, causing him to stay on the floor for a while. pic.twitter.com/szqLmbRFlZ

— Grant Afseth (@GrantAfseth) May 27, 2024

He did not look to be in good shape to return to the game, but the Mavericks categorized him as doubtful at halftime due to a neck strain. Along with immediate concerns about his health, Lively's impending departure might be a big blow to the Mavericks. 

Dereck Lively II was curcial player for Dallas Mavericks

The 20-year-old Lively and starting center Daniel Gafford were key contributors in Dallas Mavericks series-opening 2-0 victory. Throughout the series, Lively was 12 of 12 from the field, including three makes before getting hurt in Game 3. As Dallas has gone past the Los Angeles Clippers and the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the postseason, his defense and post presence have been crucial. 

Dallas Mavericks have seen a significant improvement in Lively, the 12th overall pick in the 2023 draft out of Duke, who was a major factor in their run to the Western Conference finals. In 14 postseason games before Sunday, Lively, who was selected for the All-Rookie team, averaged 8.7 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.1 blocks off the bench. 

After winning Games 1 and 2 in Minnesota and having a chance to win the series at home, Dallas went into Game 3 with a 2-0 series lead.