NBA Rumors: Lakers Player In Luka Doncic Trade Receives ‘Hopeful’ Injury Update.
The Los Angeles Lakers have been performing well recently, currently holding the third spot in the Western Conference ahead of their Sunday evening game against the Los Angeles Clippers. However, the Lakers face a packed injury report for this game, with LeBron James and Luka Doncic both listed as questionable.
Also included on the injury report is Maxi Kleber, who was part of the surprising trade that sent Doncic from Dallas to Los Angeles in early February. Kleber has yet to play for the Lakers this season after sustaining a foot fracture earlier in the year, and he is still in the recovery process.
However, there is now reported optimism that his return could happen soon, according to Jovan Buha of The Athletic on YouTube (via Hoopshype, via Bleacher Report).
“I’ve heard there’s some optimism that Kleber could return before the regular season ends,” Buha stated.
Of course, the main focus of the Luka Doncic trade was Doncic himself, but that doesn’t mean Kleber should be viewed only as an afterthought to balance the salaries.
Kleber made notable contributions during his time with the Mavericks, playing significant minutes in each of the team’s two deep playoff runs during the Doncic era.
Although Kleber isn’t a traditional post-up player, the Lakers could benefit from his presence in the frontcourt, especially after trading away Anthony Davis. Kleber is capable of stretching the floor with his three-point shooting, something Lakers fans are familiar with from his game-winning shot against them last season.
However, it’s likely that coach JJ Redick would use Kleber in a limited role, with more opportunities potentially arising depending on matchups and the Lakers’ injury situation.