Clippers fans knew that the first 20 or so games of the season was going to be tough without Kawhi Leonard. The two-time NBA champion was sidelined due to knee issues that also sidelined him out of Team USA duties, and it was even feared at one point that the Klaw would be out of commission until 2025.
Recent reports have quelled any worries that Leonard will be out for much longer as he’s started to participate in more team practices. While the team is doing surprisingly well without their key player, the entire roster is eager to have the two-way forward back into the fold.
The latest injury update involving Leonard should provide encouraging news to Clips fans who are waiting for their man to return.
Kawhi Leonard has participated in Clippers scrimmages, per Tyronn Lue
Tyronn Lue has been fielding non-stop questions about Leonard’s condition over the past two months. While he’s done a marvelous job in keeping the Clippers within the automatic playoff spots without him, he would be the first to admit that the team badly needs Kawhi’s scoring, defense, and leadership.
His most recent update on Kawhi’s status should get fans excited on a Leonard return that may happen before the year ends.
Per Athlon Sports’ Paolo Songco:
“Well, he practiced today, five-on-five with contact,” Lue said, via the Los Angeles Times. “So, good seeing him out there doing that. It came out good. So, just continue the process and making sure we’re checking every box before he returns to play. … He’s going to travel, yes, but he will not play on this trip.”
The 15th overall pick of the 2011 Draft hasn’t played a single minute of NBA basketball this season. Moreover, he hasn’t played a full 82-game season in his already incredible career.
However, it’s hard to deny that Leonard is a terrific player to build around despite his injury woes. He averaged 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.9 blocks last season, making him one of the better two-way players in the league.
While there are only a handful of games left in 2024, fans are hoping to see Kawhi back on the hardwood sooner rather than later.
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