6 Dallas Mavericks who have failed to meet expectations this season

1. Maxi Kleber

Dallas Mavericks forward Maxi Kleber has had an up-and-down last couple of years, and it all started in the 2022 NBA Playoffs. Kleber had a concerning slump to end the regular season, but he turned it around in the playoffs as he averaged 8.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 0.8 blocks per game while shooting 50.9 percent from the field and 43.6 percent from downtown. He played tremendously in these playoffs and the Mavs decided to give him a three-year contract extension worth $33 million.

Kleber had earned this contract, but a torn hamstring last season and a dislocated toe this season have led to his play declining rapidly. He is having arguably the worst season of his career right now, as he is averaging 4.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 0.6 blocks per game.

Kleber was expected to have a big year after fully recovering from his torn hamstring over the offseason, but his $11 million annually is starting to look like an overpay at this point.

Kleber remains a solid role player for this team and he will likely play heavy minutes in the playoffs, but his inconsistency on offense remains a concern. He has lacked confidence as a shooter lately, and he is at his best when he shoots with no hesitation.

Kleber will likely see more run than usual soon, as Dereck Lively II could miss two weeks with a knee injury, so the Mavs will need him at his best.

For all the latest on Maxi Kleber, Dereck Lively II, and the Dallas Mavericks this season, stay tuned.