The Los Angeles Lakers are determined to bounce back after a disappointing 117-95 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs. In order to do so, they will need every member of their roster performing at their highest level. However, they will be without power forward Maxi Kleber for Game 2 as he continues to recover from right foot surgery following a fracture sustained against the Boston Celtics. Kleber, who was acquired in a trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks, has yet to make his debut for the Lakers.
Kleber has had a successful career in Europe before making the jump to the NBA. He played for various teams in Germany and Spain before signing with the Mavericks in 2017. During his time in Dallas, Kleber established himself as a key rotation player, averaging 6.4 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. He was even a candidate for NBA Sixth Man of the Year in the 2021-22 season. Despite going undrafted in 2014, Kleber proved himself on the court and earned a spot in the league.
In addition to Kleber, the Timberwolves will also be missing guard Rob Dillingham in Game 2 due to a right ankle sprain. Dillingham, who is in his rookie season with Minnesota, has been a solid contributor off the bench, averaging 4.5 points and two assists per game. Both teams will need to adjust their lineups and game plans in the absence of these key players as they look to secure a crucial win in the playoffs.
The Lakers will now have to rely on the rest of their roster to step up in Kleber’s absence and make the necessary adjustments to gain an edge in Game 2. With players like Markieff Morris and Luka Doncic leading the way, they will need a collective effort from everyone to turn the series around. The loss of Kleber is a significant blow, but the team is determined to overcome this setback and show their resilience on the court.
As the playoffs progress, every game becomes more crucial, and the Lakers understand the importance of making a statement in Game 2 against the Timberwolves. With the series tied 1-1, each team will be fighting tooth and nail for a victory that could potentially swing the momentum in their favor. The absence of Kleber and Dillingham will force both teams to adjust their strategies and rotations, making for an even more unpredictable and intense matchup in the postseason. Despite the challenges they face, the Lakers remain confident in their abilities and are ready to rise to the occasion in this pivotal game. Fans can expect a thrilling and competitive showdown as these two teams battle it out for a chance to advance in the playoffs.
