The Los Angeles Lakers possess several guaranteed players for 2025-26. However, there are several uncertainties. A refreshed Luka Doncic and a timeless LeBron James should work together to give the LA Lakers a strong baseline this upcoming season. Taking into account the talented players surrounding them, including Marcus Smart, Rui Hachimura, Austin Reaves, and Deandre Ayton, the Lakers find themselves in a solid position. There is considerable interest surrounding the Lakers’ draft selection Adou Thiero, along with optimism that Dalton Knecht can develop following an inconsistent rookie year. However, the main uncertainty revolves around a player the Lakers have scarcely become acquainted with, Maxi Kleber. Maxi Kleber appeared in just one game for the LA Lakers. The LA Lakers received Maxi Kleber as an additional player in the Luka Doncic trade in early February. However, a problem existed. Kleber suffered a fractured foot in late January, sidelining him for the remainder of the regular season. He hardly appeared in the playoffs as well. There was much astonishment when Lakers coach JJ Redick summoned him during the Lakers’ season-ending Game 5 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves
It was a risky gamble, putting Kleber into a high-stakes match with the Lakers needing a boost. And it was ineffective, yet maybe it was preferable for Redick to attempt and feel regret than to not attempt whatsoever. It demonstrated the respect and trust Redick has in Kleber, believing he could manage a situation like that. So far, Kleber has made one appearance for the Lakers, totaling five minutes and scoring two points. Kleber’s position as a Laker for the season is not assured. Regarding what Kleber may provide the LA Lakers next season, this is still unclear, given the team’s existing roster and circumstances. The German played his entire NBA career earlier with the Dallas Mavericks, appearing in 440 regular season games and 45 playoff games. Although he is still part of their roster as training camp approaches, he starts as a secondary player, possibly ranked eighth on the depth chart, with much to demonstrate. Rumors are circulating that Kleber may not be with the LA Lakers for the next season
The Lakers Nation podcast discussed how Kleber’s $11 million contract might be waived and stretched to generate additional salary cap space for signing another player. Currently, this is merely a hypothetical situation, and Kleber is still contracted with the Lakers for an additional season. It could be wise to find out what they possess with the player initially
