As one of the season’s most important games is approaching, the LA Clippers will need the superstar talents of Kawhi Leonard to guide them to victory. Especially with eight-time all-star Paul George out due to a leg injury, Leonard will be expected to dominate on both ends of the court.
Furthermore, through tonight’s game, one of the most important keys to watch for is the lineups head coach Tyronn Lue surrounds Leonard with. Along with the former MVP Russell Westbrook, Lue may look to insert two-way players like Nicolas Batum, Robert Covington, and Terance Mann in order to keep the offense flowing smoothly.
What is Kawhi Leonard’s status for the Battle of LA?
Per the latest injury report, LA Clippers star Kawhi Leonard is not listed and available to play. This is precisely what the team needs as the playoffs are around the corner, and the Clippers are fighting their hardest to avoid the play-in tournament.
Marcus Morris and Eric Gordon are questionable tomorrow. Paul George remains out.
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) April 5, 2023
Everyone else is available vs. the Lakers.
Moreover, the Western Conference standings are incredibly close. Not only is there a two-way tie for the sixth seed, but the Clippers are 0.5 games back from the fifth spot. A win tonight would put the LA Clippers over Golden State as they hold the season series.
The final thing to keep an eye on is who Leonard is guarding on the defensive end. As the Lakers have an all-time great in LeBron James, it is evident that he will be Leonard’s assignment. However, preserving energy in a game like this is prominent if the Clippers hope to win.