Kawhi Leonard’s knee injury has once again raised concerns for LA Clippers fans as the star forward faces another extended period on the sidelines. With his injury issues continuing to linger, the team’s plans for a strong start to the season are now in question. As the Clippers prepare to move forward without their All Star, the focus shifts to his recovery timeline.
Here’s what happened to Leonard and what we know about his expected return.
How did Kawhi Leonard get injured?
Kawhi Leonard has been battling right knee inflammation, which sidelined him during the 2023 NBA playoffs. This lingering issue continued into the offseason, requiring a knee procedure that he hoped would resolve the problem. However, the inflammation persisted, and Leonard will miss significant time due to this ongoing issue.
Leonard’s knee problems have been a recurring issue throughout his career. In the 2021–2022 season, he missed the entire year recovering from a torn ACL, and injuries have limited his playing time since joining the LA Clippers in 2019.
When will Kawhi Leonard return to NBA?
There is no definitive timetable for Kawhi Leonard’s return to the NBA, as reports suggest he will miss several weeks. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Leonard’s absence will extend for an indefinite period, and Clippers coach Tyronn Lue has not provided specific details on when Leonard might return
Leonard’s ongoing knee inflammation has raised concerns, especially considering his injury history. While the Clippers are hopeful for his return later in the season, it is unclear how long the recovery process will take, as it depends on how well his knee responds to treatment.
Kawhi Leonard’s absence leaves the Clippers in a tough position, especially with the loss of Paul George in free agency. The team will need to rely on players like James Harden and new acquisitions Derrick Jones Jr. and Kevin Porter Jr. to shoulder the load in Leonard’s absence.
Given Leonard’s history of injuries, the team will likely proceed with caution, prioritizing his long-term health to ensure he can contribute effectively once he returns.
