DALLAS — Dallas Mavericks forward Maxi Kleber exited the team's Game 6 clash against the Los Angeles Clippers with a right shoulder sprain. The injury occurred after Kleber fell to the ground following a shooting foul. The Mavs forward is doubtful to return.

The Mavs' offense started strong against the Clippers on Friday. Additionally, head coach Jason Kidd provided an encouraging Luka Doncic injury update before the game. However, this Kleber injury is obviously far from ideal. The Mavericks are already without Tim Hardaway Jr. and Olivier-Maxence Prosper, so they certainly do not want to lose Kleber for an extended period of time.

Kleber is a stretch forward who made five three-pointers in Game 5. The Mavs had struggled from beyond the arc in the series, so Kleber's effort was crucial.

It is currently uncertain how serious Kleber's injury is. We will provide updates as they are made available.

Maxi Kleber suffers injury during Clippers-Mavericks Game 6

Dallas Mavericks forward Maxi Kleber (42) celebrates after making a three point shot against the LA Clippers during the first quarter during game six of the first round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at American Airlines Center.
Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Kleber has played with the Mavs since the 2016-17 season. He's never been a star in the NBA, but Kleber has played an important role nonetheless.

He averaged 4.4 points per game on 43.2 percent field goal and 34.8 percent three-point shooting during the 2023-24 campaign. Kleber has also shot 35.7 percent from deep for his career. His ability to stretch the floor is something Dallas has utilized since he's been on the roster.

Through five games in the 2024 NBA playoffs, Kleber has averaged 6.0 points per outing on 55.6 percent field goal and 60 percent three-point shooting. Again, the Mavs have not shot the ball well from deep so far in the postseason. Kleber has been a bright spot from three-point range without question.

As of this story's writing, the Mavericks and Clippers are tied at 52 points apiece at the half. It projects to be a competitive finish as Dallas looks to win the series. Los Angeles is going to do everything they can to keep the series alive, however.

The Mavs will likely need to find a way to win without Kleber. He is currently doubtful to return to action in Game 6. It will be a situation worth closely monitoring, though.