Injury Updates Dim Lakers’ Playoff Hopes Ahead of Mavericks Clash

DALLAS, Texas — The Los Angeles Lakers will be without Maxi Kleber when they face off against the Dallas Mavericks tonight, a pivotal matchup in the lead-up to the NBA playoffs.

Kleber, who has been sidelined since January 25 due to a foot injury, will miss the last game of the regular season scheduled for April 9 at the American Airlines Center. This absence raises questions about his availability for the playoffs, which begin April 19.

In a best-case scenario, Kleber would have served as a backup center behind Jaxson Hayes, who is also dealing with a hand injury. “It’s been tough on the team, but we have to remain focused and prepared for any situation,” said Lakers’ head coach Darvin Ham.

Tonight’s game marks a significant moment for both teams, especially Luka Doncic, who will play his first game in Dallas since being traded to the Lakers. The matchup is notably the first time Anthony Davis and Doncic will face each other since their February trade.

Both teams are fighting for playoff spots, with the Lakers reeling from a recent 136-120 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. “We need this win to clinch our playoff position,” said Davis, who is listed as probable for the game.

The Mavericks are vying for a spot in the Play-In Tournament, especially after the Phoenix Suns lost to the Golden State Warriors, enhancing Dallas’s chances. If they secure a victory tonight, the Mavericks could solidify their playoff aspirations.

In addition to Kleber, the Mavericks will be missing several key players including Kyrie Irving, Jaden Hardy, and Olivier-Maxence Prosper, all sidelined due to injuries. “Injuries have been a challenge for us, but we are ready to adapt,” noted Mavericks’ head coach Jason Kidd.

As the game approaches, all eyes will be on the injury reports for both teams. The Lakers are expected to field a mostly healthy roster, aiming to leverage their advantage in perimeter play with Luka Doncic and LeBron James cleared to play.

The game tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET, and fans can catch the action on ESPN and Spectrum Sports. This matchup promises to be a high-stakes clash as both teams seek crucial victories as the playoffs loom.