Dallas Mavericks: 5 unassuming players that make team playoff threat

Unassuming player that makes Dallas Mavericks playoff threat: 2. Maxi Kleber

Kleber has missed four straight games with a nagging Achilles injury. The Mavs are hoping he can return to the court for the final four games before the playoffs, but it is something to watch. Kleber playing at less than 100 percent could impact his performance on both ends of the floor.

The average NBA fan may not know Kleber. The 6’10 big man has never averaged more than ten points per game or led the league in a category. He was not a college phenom that is waiting for an expanded opportunity in the NBA. The 29-year-old German just continues to get better and make a massive impact on the game.

Kleber has started 40 of his 48 games for the Mavericks this season. He is shooting 41.5 percent from 3-point range. His counting stats do not jump off the screen, which helps Kleber stay unassuming.

The 6’10 big man is a key piece for Dallas on both ends of the floor. He is their stretch four and a critical floor spacer on offense. Kleber’s ability to guard both on the block and the perimeter makes him massive on defense too. He allows the Mavs to switch and makes life tough on the opposition. Kleber playing well makes the Dallas Mavericks a threat against any team.

Next: No. 1