5 Biggest X-factors for Dallas Mavericks ahead of 2024 NBA Playoffs

1. Maxi Kleber

Dallas Mavericks forward Maxi Kleber has had an up-and-down 2023-24 season, and the Mavs are going to need him to take his play to the next level once the 2024 NBA Playoffs.

This season for the Mavs, Kleber is averaging 4.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 0.7 blocks per game while shooting 43.2 percent from the field and 34.8 percent from downtown. Statistically, this has been one of the worst seasons of Kleber's career, but his impact still remains massive considering his impact on the defensive end of the floor and his overall versatility.

Kleber has the ability to switch onto guards when needed on the perimeter, and he and P.J. Washington are the only two players on the team who can effectively play small-ball five. Earlier in the year, the Mavs struggled defending bigs who can stretch the floor and Kleber's defense on shooting bigs is solid.

While the Mavs haven't been playing as much small ball recently, Kleber will still be an important piece in this playoff series against the LA Clippers. Kleber was used heavily when Dallas played the Clippers in 2020 and 2021, and he could be someone that Jason Kidd relies upon in the playoffs.

Kleber's shooting has been hit or miss this season and his success as a shooter is heavily based upon confidence. He is a completely different player when he plays with confidence and assertiveness, and he will be getting plenty of open looks when they battle the Clippers.

For all the latest on the Dallas Mavericks during the 2024 NBA Playoffs, stay tuned.