Mavs Get Massive Injury News on Frontcourt Before Game 4
By Cem Yolbulan
The Dallas Mavericks are on a roll as they are one win away from their first NBA Finals since 2011. They have an excellent opportunity to close out their series against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night and await their opponent from the Eastern Conference, most likely the Boston Celtics.
The final injury report ahead of their Game 4 showdown gives one positive and one concerning news for Mavs fans.
Dereck Lively Out in Game 4 Against the Timberwolves
Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II (neck sprain) will not play in Game 4 against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the WCF, league sources tell @NBAonTNT, @BleacherReport. pic.twitter.com/WIaKwkET3L
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) May 27, 2024
The concerning news involves Dereck Lively. The rookie center suffered an unfortunate head/neck injury in the second quarter of Game 3. Going up for a rebound, Karl-Anthony Towns accidentally kneed Lively in the back of his head. The 20-year-old big man was forced out of the game and was later ruled out with a neck sprain.
Even though Lively's test results came back clean, he will remain sidelined for Game 4, according to Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report.
This may just be precautionary and Mavs fans will hope that it is. Dallas needs Lively back as he provides the best combination of rim protection and pick-and-roll play.
At the same time, the Mavericks are adding another depth option to their big man rotation. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, Maxi Kleber is getting ready for his return as he was just upgraded to questionable for Game 4.
Mavericks News: Maxi Kleber Returning Soon For the Playoffs
Mavericks forward Maxi Kleber is on cusp of a return to the postseason, he has been upgraded to questionable for Game 4 vs. Timberwolves. Kleber has been out since May 3 due to an AC joint shoulder separation.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 27, 2024
This is excellent news for the Mavericks. Kleber suffered a shoulder injury against the Clippers in the first round and hasn't suited up since May 3. His return will give Dallas another capable frontcourt player.
Even if Kleber can't return for Game 4, he will play an important role going forward. The 32-year-old combo big provides something other Dallas bigs can't. He can space the floor, and hit open threes while being able to switch and guard multiple positions on the other end.
Especially if Lively misses extended time, Kleber's return will be even more critical as he is a clear upgrade over Dwight Powell at this stage of his career.
On FanDuel Sportsbook, the Dallas Mavericks are currently +200 to win the NBA title. If they can get their full complement of players back soon, they will have a great chance to win it all.
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