Mavericks get bad news with Kleber’s injury

The Mavericks received terrible news Thursday morning when it was announced that forward Maxi Kleber had suffered a tear of his right hamstring.

Kleber missed Wednesday’s game against Cleveland and coach Jason Kidd had said he was undergoing more tests to determine the severity of the injury.

Kleber is averaging 6.2 points, 3.5 rebounds and shooting 36.9 percent from three-point range. However, in nine games since returning from a lower-back contusion, Kleber had averaged 8.8 points, 1.4 rebounds and shot 46.9 percent from beyond the arc.

He has become the anchor of the Mavericks’ paint- and rim-protection defense.

Kleber will be out indefinitely. There is no timetable for his return.

The loss of Kleber likely opens up more playing opportunities for JaVale McGee and perhaps an even larger role for Christian Wood.

Below is the Mavericks’ release announcing the injury:

INJURY UPDATE: MAXI KLEBER

DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks announced today that forward Maxi Kleber suffered a tear of his right hamstring at practice on Tuesday, December 13.

Treatment options are being considered. At this time, there is no timetable for Kleber’s return and updates will be given when appropriate.