Dallas Mavericks: Who wins Defensive Player of Game belt most this season?

Dallas Mavericks Defensive Player of the Game candidate: 2. Maxi Kleber

Had the Mavs been handling out the belt last season, Kleber would have been the favorite to win the award on eight different occasions. He had two games of five blocks and at least three swats on 12 occasions. Kleber is one of the most underrated defenders in the NBA.

His rare combination of perimeter defense and rim protection led coach Carlisle to start Kleber against the Rockets on Jan. 4. The Mavs promptly went on a three-game winning streak including in Denver when Kleber would have been in contention for the Defensive Player of the Game belt.

He has missed the last five games in the league’s health and safety protocols. Expect the Mavericks to ramp him up slowly after the long absences where Kleber was not even able to practice.

His ability to block shots and create havoc will see Maxi Kleber take home the belt on multiple occasions. Do not be surprised to see him win it eight times or more this season. He is one of the frontrunners to lead the team, but my guess is he finishes second. Frontcourt minutes will be difficult to come by, which pushes Kleber down the list.

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