Mavericks' depth running dangerously thin after being blindsided by latest injury

Dallas' playoff hopes may be fading

Maxi Kleber goes down once again

The Dallas Mavericks' playoff hopes took a major hit on Monday when Maxi Kleber suffered a season-ending hamstring injury. The 6'10" forward has been a key part of the Mavericks' rotation this season, averaging 6.4 points and 5.4 rebounds per game.

Kleber's injury is a major blow to the Mavericks, who are already without Kristaps Porzingis (knee) and Tim Hardaway Jr. (foot). The Mavericks are now extremely thin at the forward position, with only Dorian Finney-Smith and Davis Bertans as reliable options.

The Mavericks have been one of the NBA's biggest surprises this season, currently sitting at 42-29 and fourth in the Western Conference. However, Kleber's injury could derail their playoff hopes. The Mavericks are now just two games ahead of the fifth-place Utah Jazz and three games ahead of the sixth-place Denver Nuggets.

With Kleber out for the season, the Mavericks will need to find a way to replace his production. Finney-Smith will likely see an increased role, and the Mavericks may also consider signing a free agent or making a trade.

The Mavericks' next game is on Wednesday against the San Antonio Spurs. It remains to be seen how they will adjust to life without Kleber, but their playoff hopes are certainly in jeopardy.