Maxi Kleber remains a big part of the Mavericks’ plans despite the impending acquisition of Houston’s Christian Wood, Tim MacMahon of ESPN tweets. Kleber’s $9MM salary isn’t guaranteed until July 4, but that is considered a formality, according to MacMahon. Kleber, who has been a rotation player for Dallas for the past five seasons, projects as Wood’s backup if Dwight Powell is moved this offseason.
We have more from the Southwest Division:
- Kyle Wiltjer and Lydell Elmore are among the free agents participating in the Mavericks’ mini-camp, JD Shaw of Hoops Rumors tweets. Dallas is hosting more than 30 players this week, many of whom have some NBA experience. Wiltjer was previously with the Rockets, while Elmore played for the G League’s Westchester Knicks this past season.
- Should the Pelicans draft Bennedict Mathurin or Dyson Daniels if both prospects are available with the No. 8 pick? The Athletic’s Will Guillory ponders that question. However, if Shaedon Sharpe falls to that spot, New Orleans shouldn’t pass up on his potential, in Guillory’s estimation.
- The Rockets come into the draft with the No. 3 and 17 picks and will wind up with another at 26 when the Wood deal with Dallas is completed. Owner Tilman Fertitta anticipates there are more trades on the horizon on draft night. “In talking about the draft, look at the maneuvering that basketball ops did last year to pick up Al-P (Alperen Sengun) by moving things around,” Fertitta said. “I can promise you one thing: The way it looks on paper, it will not be exactly like that come Thursday. Stuff just happens. People call you. You’re calling people.”
Maxi slots in as Wood’s backup regardless of what happens to Powell. If the Mavs can move his $11M expiring salary, they will do so. If not, he’s going to be an overpaid energy guy and their 3rd center. He’s a good dude. Just not a rotational center on a contending team.
Rockets need winning culture by acquiring a team leader
In the nba level, Green and Chet are role players in the future
You are Kings If your team consists of all role players …
Rockets need paolo, would be very fun offensively, they should also trade the bulls the 26th pick for coby white and his zero trade value
Uh have to match salary
Last thing rockets need is another guard. They need wings and big guys. Banchero will help shore up PF and they already said they were looking for a veteran center to backup sengun. Rockets future is bright green + banchero within 2 years and probably a top 5 pick next year. They could be a top seed by 23-24
In 2 seasons the Rockets could be a top seed?! If they are in the playoffs in 2 years they should be thrilled. Maybe stop chugging Stevewisers before posting haha
Another top 5 pick and 2 max players (they’ll have the money) could put them up there. I said could not I guarandamntee it. Look at the jump Memphis made this year or the suns 2 years ago. Times change…. Now throw me a damn beer son
Klebers defense in the playoffs was awesome.
Tilman has shown he is a cheap owner so far. Hopefully he changes his ways and actually wants to build a contender. So far it’s been about the LTS – Luxury Tax Savings