The Dallas Mavericks lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday night by a score of 113-110. Jarrett Allen played a key part for the Cavs, scoring 24 points and grabbing 23 rebounds as he destroyed Mavs rookie Dereck Lively II down low. But, he was impressed with Lively's skillset.

“Honestly, I’m a big fan of Dereck Lively,” Allen said. “I keep up with him as a rookie. He’s been excellent this year at getting rebounds and just positioning. So, not necessarily a mismatch, I just feel like he didn’t have the best game for himself tonight.”

Lively II didn't have his greatest night against Cleveland, grabbing four boards and scoring four points. But, overall, it's been a promising rookie campaign for him, averaging 9.2 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks. Mavs head coach spoke on how Lively II can learn from Allen after Wednesday's loss. Via Joey Mistretta:

“[He can learn] A lot. A lot from the first play of the game. You've got to be ready. Everybody can talk about how well you're playing but you've got to understand who you're playing against. The first play of the game went to [Jarrett] Allen and he got a foul. Just understanding Allen's an all-star and he plays at a high level. This is a game he (Lively) can learn from.”

This contest proved Lively isn't quite ready to bang with the best bigs. Allen dominated him down low as the Cavs won the rebound battle 57-37. Nevertheless, it was a learning experience for Lively II, who is shaping up to be an important piece of the Mavs' future.