Dallas Mavericks: Maxi Kleber (leg) out vs. Rockets

The Dallas Mavericks face the Houston Rockets in the first of a back-to-back set on April 7. They have a jam-packed schedule over the next two weeks featuring multiple back-to-backs. Expect the Mavs to be careful with their starters as they gear up for the stretch run.

Maxi Kleber was ruled out against the rival Rockets with right leg soreness. It is the second missed game by Kleber in the last three. Dallas managed to top the Wizards without Maxi, but Wednesday’s game will be no easy task.

John Wall will be back in action for the Rockets. Houston has lost five straight and is hungry for a victory. Few would be sweeter than snapping their losing streak against the rival Mavericks. Kristaps Porzingis will return for Dallas, but how will they fill in for Kleber? Let us take a closer look.

Maxi Kleber (leg) out vs. Rockets: How will Dallas Mavericks adjust?

Willie Cauley-Stein, Trey Burke, J.J. Redick, and Tyrell Terry are all out as the Mavs face the Rockets on Wednesday night. Dallas will rely heavily on their starters.

Expect Nicolo Melli and Dwight Powell to fill in for Kleber in the frontcourt. Melli is likely to play over 30 minutes with Powell falling in the 15 to 20 range, depending on how the Mavericks are matching up against the Rockets.

The Mavericks will need Melli to knock down his open 3-pointers on April 7. Kleber is an important floor spacer and defender for Dallas. Melli won the Defensive Player of the Game belt against the Utah Jazz, but he is just two of nine from 3-point range since joining the Mavs. Hopefully, the veteran forward finds his shooting stroke on Wednesday night.

Check back to The Smoking Cuban for updates on Maxi Kleber’s injury, plus the opinions and analysis Dallas Mavericks fans crave on their favorite team. Do not miss it.