Ranking the Dallas Mavericks best trade chips heading into the offseason

Dallas Mavericks best trade chips: 3. Maxi Kleber

Fans that still doubted Maxi Kleber saw his importance in the playoffs. Coach Carlisle shifted him into the starting five and made him the primary defender on Kawhi Leonard. That is a unique skill for a 6’10 big man. Kleber’s ability to defend on the perimeter and protect the rim makes every NBA team interested in his services.

The 28-year-old also shot 37.3 percent from 3-point range during the regular season. Kleber fits at the four or the five on offense but can guard any player on the other end. He struggles most against traditional centers that can bully him in the paint. Kleber is a tremendous help-side defender that protects the rim.

The Mavericks do not want to part with Maxi Kleber either. They understand and appreciate his many underrated qualities. If a team offering a star player comes knocking and refuses to make the move without the addition of Kleber, fans should expect the Mavericks to ship him out. The 28-year-old is a stellar role player, but he is never going to blossom into a star.

Kleber also has three-years and $26 million left on his contract. Locking in a steady role player at under $9 million per season is just great business. The Dallas Mavericks would love to hold on to that value contract.

Next: No. 2