When the Los Angeles Lakers traded Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Luka Doncic, there were a couple of other key players in the deal that are not talked about as much.
New Mavericks guard Max Christie has been impressive since leaving LA, but the Lakers got a key forward in the trade who has yet to suit up since the deal.
33-year-old forward Maxi Kleber was traded from the Mavericks to the Lakers alongside Doncic, but has not played since January 25 for Dallas. With just seven games left in the regular season, Kleber could finally be making his Lakers debut soon.
The Lakers are set to face off against their Pacific Division rival, the Golden State Warriors, on Thursday, but Kleber is expected to receive an injury update after missing the last 29 games with a right foot fracture.
On Wednesday, Kleber was seen at Lakers' practice getting shots up, and Lakers coach JJ Redick is expected to announce an injury update for him before Thursday's game.
Via Dave McMenamin: "Maxi Kleber, who has been out with a right foot fracture since he was traded to LAL, gets up shots after Lakers practice. JJ Redick said the team would have an update on Kleber’s recovery timeline tomorrow"
Through 34 games with the Mavericks this season, Kleber averaged 3.0 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, but has proven to be a valuable player through eight seasons in Dallas.
While Kleber certainly will not return on Thursday, an update on his timetable could be huge for the Lakers' weakened frontcourt depth.
