Maxi Kleber represents the last major stepping stone to the Los Angeles Lakers having every major member of this team available before the 2025 NBA Playoffs. Kleber also represents a potential option to turn to in the frontcourt when the Lakers need more size in their rotations.
Excitement was brewing for fans in Los Angeles when a video surfaced of the former Dallas Mavericks big man putting up shots in practice with the team. Jovan Buha then told everyone to sit tight, as JJ Redick promised an update on Kleber's injury on Thursday. Unfortunately for Lakers fans, the update was not exactly what they wanted to hear.
Injury update addresses the Kleber question without actually answering
The Lakers head coach may want to consider a career in politics after his coaching days are over. The Lakers perfectly executed providing an update without actually offering a ton of substance in there. That is a strategic move which is perfectly tailored for governmental office.
All jokes aside, Buha reported the following message from the Lakers on Twitter/X.
The Athletic reporter wrote, "Update from the Lakers: Maxi Kleber has progressed to on-court activities after undergoing right foot surgery Jan. 30. Kleber will continue his return-to-play process and further updates will be provided as appropriate."
The knowledge that the German big man will be participating in on-court activities is certainly encouraging. However, what is missing from this message is more telling of the situation. There was no exact timetable provided for Kleber's return.
That part is incredibly disappointing for Lakers fans as it should indicate that his injury recovery is still going to take some time. Unfortunately for everyone involved, time is not a luxury that Los Angeles has.
The Lakers have six games remaining in their regular season schedule before the start of the postseason. The 82nd game of this campaign is just over a week away. Los Angeles will wrap up their last fixture on Apr. 13 against the Portland Trail Blazers.
If Kleber cannot make his debut with the Lakers before the end of the regular season then it will be tough to confidently plug him in, as needed, come playoff time, when he is available. Without having some sort of sample regarding his fit with this team and the overall state of his health, any rotational minutes for one of the newest members of the team will be a considerable gamble.