Maxi Kleber is a key player for the Dallas Mavericks. He is set to return for Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic and Marc Stein of The Stein Line, Kleber who has been out since May 3 with a shoulder injury is expected to return to the court giving the Mavericks a big boost in their playoff push.
Injury and Recovery of Maxi Kleber
Maxi Kleber’s injury happened in Game 6 of the Mavericks’ first-round series with the Los Angeles Clippers. Kleber dislocated his right shoulder’s AC joint during a fast-break attempt after falling while trying a layup. The injury was severe enough that there were immediate concerns that Kleber would miss the rest of the postseason. However, the Mavericks’ lengthy playoff run has given him enough time to rehabilitate and make his projected comeback.
Impact on the Team
Maxi Kleber is a 32-year-old native of Wurzburg, Germany. He is in his seventh season with the Mavericks. He is Known for his versatility and defensive capabilities. Kleber averaged 4.4 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game during the regular season. His return is timely as the Mavericks look to clinch their third conference title in franchise history and their first NBA Finals appearance since 2011 when they won their only NBA Championship.
Kleber has been an integral part of the Mavericks’ rotation, contributing 5.7 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists in just 19 minutes per game throughout the playoff . His ability to stretch the floor with his 35.7% career three-point shooting and his prowess as a perimeter defender add a valuable dimension to the Mavericks’ game plan.
Current Series Status
The Mavericks currently lead the series 3-0 against the Timberwolves putting them just one win away from the NBA Finals where they are set to face the Boston Celtics. Despite Kleber’s absence the Mavericks have managed to dominate the series thanks in large part to the stellar performances of guard Luka Dončić.
Additional Injury Updates
In other injury news rookie big man Dereck Lively III is expected to be out for Game 4 due to a neck sprain sustained in Game 3 after an accidental collision with the Timberwolves’ Karl-Anthony Towns. Lively’s absence leaves the Mavericks relying on Daniel Gafford and the returning Kleber to anchor their frontcourt.
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“The Mavericks have three trustworthy center choices when they are at full strength. CBS Sports’ Sam Quinn stated “Lively and Daniel Gafford are their more traditional big men, who control the paint and win Dallas games with their rebounding, lob-finishing and rim-protection.” “Kleber, a career 3-point shooter at 35.7%, is their curveball.” Having him available to help spread the floor in some situations is extremely beneficial especially given he is a competent perimeter defender.”
Looking Ahead
The Mavericks are on track to reach the NBA Finals now that Maxi Kleber has returned to the lineup. The team’s depth and strategic versatility will be important as they strive for another championship. Fans and observers alike are excited to see how Kleber’s return will affect the team’s performance in the crucial Game 4.
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As the Mavericks gear up for what could be a historic night all eyes will be on the American Airlines Center to see if Dallas can capitalize on their momentum and close out the series against the Timberwolves.