The Los Angeles Clippers are gearing up for the NBA regular season opener at the end of October. With James Harden in excellent form after showcasing his talent in preseason games, head coach Tyronn Lue is still waiting on the availability of several key players to join Harden for the first game of the season, like Kawhi Leonard.
Despite a 2-1 record in the preseason, Lue remains unfazed by his team’s performance, with the only loss coming by one point against the Warriors. Harden and Kai Jones have been standout players in the other two victories.
However, one pressing question lingers for the Clippers and Tyronn Lue: the status of four players whose availability for the season opener remains uncertain, including Leonard.
With Leonard and Mo Bamba expected to play crucial roles in the Clippers’ pursuit of an NBA Finals appearance, Lue is monitoring their progress closely as the team prepares for the season opener.
Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers reacts in the third quarter during their game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on March 31, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Injury updates: Clippers await key players’ status
As the regular season opener approaches, the Clippers are monitoring the injuries of four key players who are questionable for the first game against the Suns in Phoenix:
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- Kawhi Leonard: While Leonard has been seen at team practices, his status remains uncertain. He hasn’t played in any preseason games, and his knee injury continues to be a concern.
- Mo Bamba: Lue told The Athletic’s Law Murray that he expects Bamba to be available for opening night, but he has a backup plan in place with Kai Jones as the alternative if Bamba is unavailable.
- Norman Powell: Powell missed the game against the Trail Blazers due to lower back soreness. Further tests will determine whether he will be ready for the season opener.
- Trentyn Flowers: The rookie has been practicing with the team during preseason, but has yet to be cleared for games.
Kai Jones set to return in final preseason games
Kai Jones, who missed the last preseason game against the Trail Blazers, is expected to return for the remaining preseason action. Lue is counting on Jones as a potential replacement should Bamba be unavailable for the season opener. The Clippers HC is hopeful these players will be ready for the season opener against the Phoenix Suns, set for October 23 at Intuit Dome in Phoenix, Arizona.
