The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for a big playoff run, and just ahead of their opening series, there’s been a key development. Head coach JJ Redick gave reporters a quick but important update that could shake up the roster depth. One name in particular is suddenly back in the mix, and fans are paying attention.
Maxi Kleber Back in Action
Kleber, the veteran big man who arrived in L.A. midseason, is finally back on the court. While there’s still no set return date, this is the first real sign of progress since his injury. And with the playoffs now here, every bit of roster depth matters.
Redick gave reporters the update, saying, “everyone was a full participant,” and yes, that included both LeBron James and Kleber.
This marks the first time Kleber has been seen on-court with the team since being sidelined over two months ago following right foot surgery.
Still, Redick made it clear that there’s no confirmed date yet for Kleber’s debut in a Lakers jersey.
Kleber, 33, has yet to suit up for Los Angeles after being part of the headline-making trade involving Luka Dončić. He last played on Jan. 25 for the Dallas Mavericks, logging just 11 minutes against the Boston Celtics before being shut down due to injury. That night wasn’t kind — he went 0-for-6 from the field and finished with just one point.
Before the injury, Kleber averaged three points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists across 34 games for Dallas this season.
Will Kleber Play in the Playoffs?
Kleber might not suit up for the first round against the Minnesota Timberwolves, but that could change if the Lakers make it to the next round. And if he does play? He might be a real difference-maker.
The Lakers need size and floor spacing, and Kleber brings both. At seven feet tall, he’s mobile enough to defend on the perimeter and stretch the floor on offense. His 3-point numbers weren’t great this season (26.5%), but he’s still a threat from deep, especially in playoff spacing.
Over eight seasons in Dallas, Kleber built solid chemistry with Dončić and made 440 regular-season appearances, averaging 6.4 points and 4.4 rebounds. His playoff experience is another bonus — 44 postseason games under his belt, many of them in high-pressure situations.
The Lakers are entering the 2025 playoffs as the No. 3 seed, riding a strong 50-32 finish. With their 15-man playoff squad nearly at full strength, a healthy Kleber, if and when he returns, could be the sneaky piece that gives L.A. an edge.