DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks faced a setback in their recent game against the Boston Celtics, suffering a 122-107 defeat and losing backup center Maxi Kleber to a right foot injury. This unfortunate event has compounded the team’s ongoing injury challenges, further depleting their roster to just one available center.

Kleber, age 32, exited the game late in the third quarter and did not return. He is scheduled for re-evaluation next week. This season has already seen him miss 12 games due to previous injuries, and he is recording an average of 3.1 points and 2.8 rebounds across 19 minutes of play per game.

Now, with Kleber sidelined, the Mavericks are left with Daniel Gafford as their only center. Dereck Lively II, who has made 25 starts for the team, has been out since January 15 due to a stress fracture in his right ankle. Meanwhile, Dwight Powell, who had been the primary starting center prior to Lively’s presence on the squad, has not played in the last four contests because of a hip issue.

Additionally, reserve forward Naji Marshall is dealing with illness, which has kept him out of action for the past three games. The most notable absence, however, remains superstar Luka Doncic. The talented player has been unable to participate since he strained his left calf on Christmas Day. Doncic, who was recognized as a top contender for MVP last season, has missed a total of 24 games out of 46 this season due to various injuries.

As the Mavericks navigate these multiple challenges, their depth is being sorely tested as they look for potential solutions to push through this difficult period.