3 Studs, 2 duds in Mavericks' first home loss of season against Raptors

4. Dud - Maxi Kleber

With Dereck Lively II dealing with a non-covid illness in last night’s loss, the Mavericks needed Dwight Powell and Maxi Kleber to step up.

This would be Kleber’s first return back to the court after missing three games due to a brutal toe injury suffered against the Chicago Bulls.

In his 15 minutes on the floor, Kleber struggled to find any rhythm in the game. Kleber would finish the game with four points, four assists, and two rebounds while shooting 4-8 from the free-throw line.

Kleber, someone who used to be an elite defender in the NBA, struggled to find his usual flow in the game which forced Jason Kidd to run a small ball lineup that could hustle more. With Kleber and his poor performance, it allowed Mavs fans to get a look at Richaun Holmes to see what he was capable of.

Nico Harrison and the Mavs front office have become a very active team when it comes to making moves before the trade deadline. If Kleber cannot up his play, expect for there to be a chance he doesn’t stay in a Mavs jersey for long.

With an elite offense the Mavs will face this upcoming Friday night, expect Kleber to be a big piece for this team defensively.