The Los Angeles Lakers are walking a tightrope. One more loss and their playoff run ends on their home court. But just ahead of Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, there’s a sliver of good news.
Just hours before tipoff, a small but significant update has fans and analysts watching closely. It’s about Maxi Kleber, who hasn’t suited up once for LA but could still be the spark the Lakers need when it matters most.
Maxi Kleber Upgraded to Questionable Before Must-Win Game 5
On Wednesday, April 30, the Lakers will return to Crypto.com Arena trailing 3-1 in their first-round series against the Timberwolves. With everything on the line, the team has upgraded Kleber’s status to questionable for Game 5.
The former Dallas Mavericks star hasn’t played a game for the Lakers since being acquired in the trade that brought Luka Dončić to LA. He underwent foot surgery back in January and has been sidelined ever since. But before Game 1, head coach JJ Redick mentioned Kleber had been a full participant in practice, hinting at a possible postseason return.
The Lakers have leaned heavily on their starters in this series. In Game 4, Redick played only five players in the second half, clearly showing he didn’t trust his bench. That’s where Kleber’s availability becomes essential.
Even if he doesn’t log heavy minutes, Kleber offers something the Lakers desperately need: floor spacing, defensive size, and experience. He’s not a flashy player, but his ability to knock down open threes and guard multiple positions could quietly shift the flow of a playoff game.
What Kleber Could Bring to the Floor?
LeBron James and Dončić have done their part, putting up big numbers every night. James is averaging 26.3 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists. Dončić is scoring 30.8 points per game. But outside of them, production has been inconsistent.
That’s why Kleber’s potential return matters. He may not be a star, but he’s a veteran who understands spacing and timing—key elements in the playoffs. He also played with Redick during their time with the Mavericks in the 2020-21 season, so there’s familiarity there.
If Kleber can suit up, he could give LA the flexibility to stretch the floor, defend the Wolves’ bigger lineups, and provide a few smart minutes off the bench. That may not sound like much, but in an elimination game, every possession counts.
Nothing is guaranteed, though, and Kleber is still only listed as questionable. But in an elimination game, even a slight change to the bench could mean the difference between staying alive and heading home. Kleber could be that change for the Lakers.
