Lakers Teammates Celebrate Maxi Kleber's Hustle Plays

Veteran forward Kleber embraces limited role, provides energy off the bench for Lakers

Mar. 2, 2026 at 4:07pm

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Despite limited playing time this season, 34-year-old Lakers forward Maxi Kleber has remained a valuable teammate and veteran presence, providing energy and hustle plays off the bench that have energized his teammates. Kleber's selfless attitude and willingness to contribute in any way he can has earned the respect of his Lakers teammates, who have been quick to celebrate his impact on the game.

Why it matters

Kleber's story highlights the importance of veteran leadership and team-first mentality, even for players with diminished roles. His ability to stay engaged and make the most of his limited minutes sets an example for younger players and shows how a positive attitude can be contagious within a team environment.

The details

Kleber has seen his playing time and production decline significantly this season, averaging just 11 minutes per game compared to 16.8 as a rookie. However, he has continued to make an impact with hustle plays like blocking shots and throwing down dunks. Kleber's Lakers teammates have been quick to celebrate these moments, standing and cheering from the bench to show their appreciation for his effort.

  • On Sunday, March 1, 2026, Kleber blocked a layup attempt and threw down a dunk in the Lakers' blowout win over the Kings.
  • The previous night, on Saturday, March 1, 2026, Kleber played 13 minutes against the Warriors.

The players

Maxi Kleber

A 34-year-old forward for the Los Angeles Lakers who has seen his playing time and production decline this season, but remains a valuable veteran presence and teammate.

Marcus Smart

A Lakers guard who praised Kleber's team-first attitude and willingness to contribute despite limited minutes.

JJ Redick

The Lakers' head coach, who spoke highly of Kleber's positive impact on the team.

Rui Hachimura

A Lakers player who said the team looks up to Kleber and tries to emulate his approach.

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What they’re saying

“He does everything right, man. And he's such a good person. He wants to see everybody win, even though he's not winning in certain circumstances of not getting playing time as much as he would like, probably. Not getting the ball as much as he would like. But he doesn't let that deter him from cheering on his teammates and being there for his teammates. And then when he does get in and his opportunity comes, taking full advantage of it.”

— Marcus Smart, Lakers Guard

“There's not a negative bone in his body towards anybody. When you got a guy like that, sometimes it's easy to take him for granted. But it's also easy to root for him like hell when he does get his opportunity because he does so much for us that doesn't show up on the stat sheet at all.”

— Marcus Smart, Lakers Guard

“We have a lot of good guys on our team. Love these guys. [Kleber's] teammates love him. He's a terrific teammate. It's easy to root for his success.”

— JJ Redick, Lakers Head Coach

“Every time I do something, you look to the bench, everybody's celebrating. Obviously, it's [a] good push for me, good push for the team.”

— Maxi Kleber

What’s next

The Lakers will look to continue relying on Kleber's veteran leadership and hustle as they push for a playoff spot in the final weeks of the regular season.

The takeaway

Maxi Kleber's selfless attitude and willingness to contribute in any way he can, even with limited playing time, has earned the respect of his Lakers teammates and serves as an inspiring example of the value of team-first mentality in professional sports.