Magic’s Wendell Carter Jr. issues an apology to Mavericks’ Dereck Lively II for the accidental injury during Monday night’s game. Lively, set to participate in the 2024 NBA Rising Stars Challenge, displayed an impressive performance with 20 points, 11 rebounds, a steal, and a block.
Unfortunately, his noteworthy play was marred when Carter Jr. inadvertently struck him in the face during the fourth quarter, resulting in a Flagrant 1 foul.
Despite suffering a bloody nose and a brief pause to address the injury, Lively capitalized on the situation, shooting four free throws due to the combined Flagrant 1 and a shooting foul. With the Mavericks trailing 119-118, Lively successfully converted two of the four attempts, securing the lead for his team.
Post-game, Carter Jr. publicly apologized to Lively on social media, expressing regret for the unintended contact. Lively responded lightheartedly, joking about resembling Pinocchio with his bloody nose. The banter continued as Luka Doncic joined in, taking credit for giving Lively the playful nickname.
Fortunately, Lively avoided a serious injury, and the incident ended with a display of good sportsmanship from all parties involved. The Mavericks are scheduled to face the Minnesota Timberwolves on the road in their next game on Wednesday night.
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