Veteran forward Maxi Kleber, who finished last season with the Los Angeles Lakers, is preparing for a potential move back to Europe, according to BasketNews.
Sources told the outlet that the 34-year-old German is “actively monitoring” his EuroLeague options and is likely to continue his career overseas. Kleber, born in Würzburg, Germany, spent nine NBA seasons—mostly with the Dallas Mavericks—before joining the Lakers in the 2025 Luka Dončić trade.
Injuries have hampered the 6-foot-10 stretch big in recent years, including a torn hamstring in 2022, a foot fracture shortly before the trade to Los Angeles, and back trouble that limited him this past season. Despite those setbacks, head coach JJ Redick relied on Kleber when front-court injuries hit the roster, valuing his floor spacing, rebounding, screening and energy.
Kleber began his professional career in Europe with stints at Obradoiro (Spain) and Bayern Munich (Germany). A return would bring him closer to home as he enters the later stages of his playing days.
Lakers roster note: Ayton picks up option
Meanwhile, starting center Deandre Ayton exercised his $8.1 million player option for the 2026-27 season. The 27-year-old averaged 12.5 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.0 block while starting all 72 games in his first campaign with Los Angeles. Although Ayton finished the year strong, the Lakers are expected to explore upgrades at the position due to fit concerns alongside Dončić.
Source: Lakers Nation
