Maxi Kleber Relies on Bench Support as Lakers Consider Larger Role for Veteran Big Man
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Los Angeles — Forward Maxi Kleber said he feeds off the enthusiasm of his Los Angeles Lakers teammates, crediting their sideline reaction for keeping him engaged during limited minutes this season.
“Every time I do something, I look at the bench and everybody is celebrating. It’s a good push for me and a good push for the team,” Kleber told reporters after the Lakers’ recent victory over the Sacramento Kings.
The 33-year-old entered the 2025-26 campaign healthy following an injury-marred arrival last spring. Acquired in the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Dončić to Los Angeles, Kleber missed the Lakers’ 2025 postseason loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves while rehabbing.
Under first-year head coach JJ Redick, Kleber has appeared sparingly but delivered several key sequences against Sacramento, strengthening his case for additional court time as center Deandre Ayton continues to struggle.
Kleber, in the final season of his contract, said he prepares as though he could be called on at any moment. “I always focus on staying ready,” he explained. “Defensively, I communicate and make the right reads on switches and screen calls. Offensively, I set good screens and try to get my teammates open; if I do that, I might get a dish here or there.”
With just over a month remaining in the regular season, Redick indicated the Lakers will need contributions from the entire roster as they push for playoff positioning, leaving the door open for Kleber to assume a larger role down the stretch.
Source: LakersNation.com
