Kleber is not a household name or a player with impressive counting statistics (4.4 points and 3.3 rebounds per game this season). However, he brings significant value to this series. Firstly, he is a competent defender who is able to protect the rim and switch out on picks, while also holding his own. Secondly, it is important to recognise that he must be respected from three-point range, where he achieved a 34.8% success rate during the current season.
Kleber is a reliable stretch five player who can be deployed when the starting five is substituted for the reserve unit, under the direction of Jason Kidd. This is beneficial as it prevents the Mavericks from utilising a small-ball lineup, which would involve P.J. Washington playing at the centre position (although it is likely that some of this will occur).
The Mavericks currently lead the series 3-0 against the Timberwolves and would prefer to conclude the series at home on Tuesday, allowing Luka Doncic and his injured knee to rest for more than a week before the start of the NBA Finals in Boston on 6 June.
