With a re-evaluation that was set to occur after the LA Clippers had touched down in Inglewood, California, from a three-game road trip, fans were forced to wait before an injury update on Kawhi Leonard. His knee was sore, and although this could have a handful of implications given his history, the two-time champion is questionable tonight with a contusion in his left knee.
Being sent home in the midst of a road trip justifies the weight of the worry that the fanbase had. Yet, the possibility of Leonard showing up tonight against the Los Angeles Lakers is an extremely encouraging sign that supports Chris B. Haynes’ report that Leonard’s injury is minor.
Thus, the Clippers will likely release additional details closer to game time, including his final status for the ‘Battle of L.A.,’ but the priority for the training staff should be patience. Though they may feel inclined to ensure Leonard is set for action, if the soreness and contusion have not disappeared completely, he should be ruled out.
Kawhi Leonard will be back in no time, even if it is not tonight
In the game before Kawhi Leonard’s three-game hiatus, he recorded 33 points, four assists, and four steals over the Washington Wizards in 33 minutes. Not to mention he drilled seven three-pointers and was a perfect eight-of-eight at the charity stripe.
Furthermore, the Clippers survived Leonard’s last three absences with a 2-1 record. They could have honestly made it to three in a row, yet fatigue caught the rotation on the second night of a back-to-back versus the Chicago Bulls.
If Leonard shows up this evening against the 26-16 Los Angeles Lakers, who are first in the Pacific Division, that would be the best outcome. JJ Redick would have more trouble on his hands to deal with, James Harden will have less pressure, and the Clippers will have a chance to re-enter the win column.
However, if Leonard and the staff agree that the time to return is too soon and the franchise superstar has not yet recovered, he is in no rush. There is a relatively high chance he will be available on Sunday against the Brooklyn Nets.
Either way, Leonard’s questionable status is something for the fanbase to smile about. He has torn the league up as of late, and once he returns, the Clippers will be at their best to go on another long, hard-earned win streak, their third of the regular season.