In a pivotal moment leading up to the Los Angeles Clippers’ playoff opener against the Dallas Mavericks, star player Kawhi Leonard’s availability remains shrouded in uncertainty. Leonard, who has been battling persistent inflammation in his surgically repaired right knee for nearly three weeks, will be listed as questionable for the upcoming clash between the fourth-seeded Clippers and the fifth-seeded Mavericks on Sunday.
According to Lawrence Frank, president of basketball operations for the Clippers, while there has been progress in Leonard’s recovery, the stubborn inflammation must continue to decrease to enable him to execute essential basketball movements effectively. Frank expressed cautious optimism, stating, “Progress has been made, but the inflammation needs to continue to reduce so he can do functional basketball movements. We’re hopeful he’s going to get there.”
Leonard’s absence from the court dates back to March 31, missing the final eight games of the regular season due to his ongoing knee concerns. Reports suggest that earlier this month, Leonard underwent an injection for his knee, although specific details have not been confirmed by the team. Frank emphasized that Leonard has been actively engaged in film sessions and reviews of the Mavericks’ strategies and players but has been unable to engage in on-court activities or contact drills.
The Clippers‘s Frank attempted to provide transparency regarding Leonard’s situation, acknowledging the unpredictability of the recovery process. He stated, “I’m trying to be as transparent as possible. It’s just very unpredictable. If things continue to get better and better, there’s a chance [he’ll play].”
Despite Leonard’s history of injury setbacks, the Clippers had seen him enjoy his healthiest regular season in four years, participating in 68 games and averaging 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. Frank highlighted Leonard’s commitment to performing at his peak during crucial moments, stating, “This guy lives for these moments. He prepares himself to be his best when his best is needed. If he’s not healthy to play at a certain moment, he won’t be out there. When Kawhi is healthy, he plays.”
It’s worth noting that Leonard’s current inflammation issue is unrelated to his previous medical concerns with the same knee, providing a glimmer of hope for his potential return to action.
Looking back at Leonard’s playoff history, he had encountered knee troubles in previous postseasons. In the 2021 playoffs, Leonard sprained his knee during the Western Conference semifinals against the Utah Jazz, yet the Clippers managed to advance to the Conference finals despite his absence. However, he missed the entirety of the 2021-22 season due to a partial tear of the ACL in his right knee, showcasing the severity of his past injuries.
In January, Leonard inked a contract extension with the Clippers, securing a deal worth $153 million over the next three years, underscoring the team’s long-term investment in his talent and potential contributions.
As the Clippers brace for the playoffs and the uncertainty surrounding Leonard’s availability looms large, the team remains hopeful for his swift recovery and potential impact on the postseason stage.
