The speculation surrounding Kawhi Leonard‘s recovery time has finally come to an end. As the Los Angeles Clippers prepare for their final NBA preseason game and gear up for the season opener, Leonard will not be part of the lineup.
Fans had hoped to see Leonard return for Week 1 of the regular season after hearing comments from head coach Tyronn Lue and assistant coach Brian Shaw. However, the latest news isn’t what they were hoping for.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania and Ohm Youngmisuk, Leonard will be sidelined for “an indefinite period of time” to start the NBA season, as reported by league sources.
This update lands as a significant blow to the Clippers, who were holding onto hope for Leonard’s early return. Now, Lue and his squad must navigate this challenging situation as they head into the season opener.
Kawhi Leonard sidelined indefinite period of time. Via @ShamsCharania.
Leonard’s knee injuries
One of the key players for the Clippers, Kawhi Leonard, has faced significant challenges throughout his career due to recurring knee issues. In fact, he has missed a total of 24 games specifically because of knee injuries.
Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers reacts during the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center on March 27, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
In addition to his knee troubles, Leonard has been sidelined due to other injuries as well. According to Fox Sports, he’s dealt with injuries to his groin, adductor, hip, and ankle. When factoring in all these ailments, Leonard’s total number of absences from the squad during his career climbs to 43 games.
Next week, the real challenge begins with the season opener against the Phoenix Suns. Harden and the Clippers will need to step up and adapt their game plan as they face Kevin Durant and a strong Suns team. With Leonard and Bamba’s availability still in question, the team will have to rely on their depth and chemistry to start the season on the right foot.
