Lakers’ Maxi Kleber Makes Season Debut Against Hawks
The Lakers' reserve big man, Maxi Kleber, returned to action Saturday in the team's 122-102 loss to the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena. Kleber, who played only one game last season after joining in the Luka Doncic trade, missed the first nine games this season due to an abdominal muscle strain.
Injury Update and Return
The Lakers updated Kleber from questionable to available just 2½ hours before tipoff. Speaking after Saturday’s morning shootaround, Kleber said,
“I’m gonna be ready. Just be prepared and be back out with the guys, get back in rhythm and routine.”
Kleber explained that he injured his abdominal muscle during a preseason practice drive to the basket, calling it “very unfortunate, unlucky.” Despite the setback, he focused on maintaining conditioning and returning as quickly as possible.
Game Performance
Kleber entered the game in the third quarter at the 5:59 mark after Coach JJ Redick rested his main rotation players while the Lakers trailed 90-65. In 14 minutes on the court, Kleber contributed modestly with:
- 1 point (splitting two free throws)
- 2 blocked shots
- 2 rebounds
- 1 assist
Preseason Setbacks
The 33-year-old was also limited in most of the preseason due to a minor quadriceps injury sustained during the Lakers' first training camp practice in September.
Author’s summary: Maxi Kleber returned from injury to make his season debut for the Lakers, showing steady effort despite limited minutes in a loss to the Hawks.