LOS ANGELES — Once viewed as a secondary figure in last year’s high-profile trade involving Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis, Maxi Kleber has quietly established a significant presence within the Lakers’ rotation this season. Though primarily serving as the team’s third big man, Kleber’s consistent readiness and tactical play have helped the Lakers sustain momentum and secure important victories in key matchups.
Typically deployed during limited stretches—often stepping in when Deandre Ayton or Jaxson Hayes encounter foul trouble—the 34-year-old German forward/center has been a steady, if understated, force. Averaging a career-low 11 minutes across 25 games, Kleber’s statistical contributions rarely dominate headlines. However, his recent performances reveal a player who impacts games through effort and strategic defense rather than box score glory.
Impact Beyond the Stats in Crucial Games
Kleber’s season-best numbers of 11 points and five rebounds came on January 17 in a loss against Portland, underscoring sporadic yet effective offensive output. More telling of his value was his role during the Lakers’ narrow 119-115 triumph over the Philadelphia 76ers. Kleber posted four points, four rebounds, and three steals, but his influence extended far beyond those figures.
In the absence of Hayes due to a suspension, Kleber provided critical coverage off the bench behind Ayton. His team-high plus-23 plus-minus rating during the game highlighted his defensive toughness and ability to energize teammates. One pivotal sequence saw him limit 76ers’ star Joel Embiid to just two field goals in the fourth quarter, facilitating guard Austin Reaves’ offensive breakout and helping the Lakers secure a lead they would maintain.
On staying physically and mentally prepared despite inconsistent playing time, Kleber explained,
“I think the one thing that you always can do is just support and be there for your teammates,”
Kleber said when asked about mentally staying ready during sporadic playing time.
“I think that keeps you mentally in the game. And then you just want to make sure that you do your work. When you do your work, you are always prepared whenever you throw them in there.”
Lakers coach JJ Redick lauded Kleber’s defensive effort against Tyrese Maxey, crediting his toughness and energy in a postgame message to the team. Guard Marcus Smart also praised Kleber’s professionalism and impact, recalling a key fourth-quarter rebound Kleber secured to set up a three-point shot from Smart.
“There’s a reason why Maxi is still in this league, still playing and there’s a reason why he’s on this team with us. There’s a reason why we celebrate him the way we do.”
Marcus Smart, Lakers guard
Staying Ready: The Backbone of Team Cohesion
As Austin Reaves worked through a left calf strain earlier this season, Kleber often appeared alongside him in what the Lakers referred to as “stay-ready” lineups. This group included bench players Drew Timme, Bronny James, Nick Smith Jr., Kleber, and Reaves. They consistently practiced together to maintain chemistry and readiness.
Reaves acknowledged the physical and mental challenges of suiting up for games on short notice, noting,
“I felt bad for them at one point because we were playing every other day and then they had to suit up for a game,”
revealing appreciation for Kleber and others navigating sporadic play.
Reaves also emphasized Kleber’s often underappreciated influence:
“People that actually know basketball know the impact that he has every single time he steps on the court,”
Reaves said.
“He does what a lot of people don’t want to do every single possession. He never complains about a shot or anything. He probably didn’t play in I don’t know how many games basically and then comes in tonight and he’s probably the most impactful player we have.”
Kleber himself downplayed his role during stay-ready games, joking about setting screens for Reaves to make shots. Nonetheless, Thursday night’s matchup illustrated the importance of their readiness, as both players rose to meet the challenges posed by a tough 76ers team.
Upcoming Game Details for Fans
The Lakers are scheduled to host their next home game at the Crypto.com Arena on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. Fans can watch the game live on ABC Channel 7 or listen via 710 AM and 980 AM radio broadcasts, where supporters will hope to see continued contributions from Kleber and the Lakers’ bench unit as the season progresses.
The Significance of Kleber’s Role Moving Forward
Maxi Kleber’s understated yet effective presence highlights a crucial aspect often overlooked in professional basketball—being ready to contribute at a moment’s notice and performing the less glamorous tasks that help teams secure wins. His defensive versatility, willingness to support teammates, and ability to step up when called upon have not only provided the Lakers with depth but have also fostered a stronger team culture.
With the Lakers aiming for sustained success as the season advances, Kleber’s calm professionalism and work ethic serve as a blueprint for how role players enrich overall team performance. As players like Austin Reaves return from injury and the team adjusts heading into critical stretches, Kleber’s impact will likely continue to resonate both on and off the court.
