Maxi Kleber soars for dunk in return as he proves why Dallas Mavericks need him

Dallas Mavericks need to keep Maxi Kleber healthy down the stretch

This season, the Mavericks' defensive rating with Maxi Kleber on the floor is 108.3, which is the best on the team. His versatility and ability to switch makes Dallas more dangerous on that end of the floor. Kleber does not get credit for being a defensive stopper, but the team is significantly better when he is in the game.

Head coach Jason Kidd must strike a delicate balance down the stretch and into the playoffs. Maxi Kleber cannot play 40 minutes per game. That will result in another injury, which leaves the Mavericks with zero answers on the defensive end of the floor.

How many minutes can Maxi play each game? He has played around 25 a night for four straight years, and that seems to be the magic number. Dallas needs him, but they cannot afford to overuse him.

The remaining minutes at the five will be split between Dwight Powell and Christian Wood. Both players need to step up their defense or Dallas is in jeopardy of making a quick exit from the postseason.

The Dallas Mavericks are still figuring things out, but Maxi Kleber gives them a massive boost. The 6’10 big man will improve their defense and make the team a difficult out, but he cannot do it all. How much does Kleber play down the stretch and into the playoffs? Stay tuned to find out.