Maxi Kleber Upgraded to Questionable for Lakers’ Must-Win Game 5

EL SEGUNDO, California — The Los Angeles Lakers have upgraded Maxi Kleber from out to questionable ahead of their crucial Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. This marks the first time since his trade from the Dallas Mavericks that Kleber hasn’t been ruled out due to his recovery from right foot surgery.

Kleber, who joined the Lakers along with Luka Doncic in a blockbuster deal, had been sidelined since January. His potential return comes as the Lakers face a 3-1 deficit in the first round of the playoffs and need to win three straight games to keep their season alive.

“You have to play with a sense of desperation,” said head coach JJ Redick after Tuesday’s practice. “Tomorrow is a Game 7 for us. We have to win Game 5.”

The Lakers have struggled with injuries and inconsistent play from bench members during this series. Redick has relied heavily on a core five players—LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Dorian Finney-Smith—making it challenging to rotate effectively. The idea of adding a player like Kleber, who has playoff experience, could provide the Lakers with much-needed depth.

Kleber’s presence could also help address their lack of size on the court. Over his eight seasons with the Mavericks, he averaged 6.4 points and 4.4 rebounds per game. Although it remains uncertain whether Redick will utilize him in such a high-pressure situation, his upgrade to questionable provides a glimmer of hope for the Lakers.

If Kleber does make his Lakers debut, it would be a significant step for both him and the team. He has been part of practice sessions and seems to be adapting well, despite not having played any games with his new team yet. The Lakers will look for any advantage possible to turn the tide against the Timberwolves.

With every rotation player available, the Lakers are healthier now than at any point during the season. If Kleber is cleared to play, it could add another layer of strategy for the Lakers as they aim to secure a much-needed victory in Game 5.