Kawhi Leonard is set to make his highly anticipated season debut for the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday against the Atlanta Hawks, as sources confirmed to ESPN. Leonard, who has been sidelined with inflammation in his right knee, was upgraded to questionable late Friday, which indicates he could return to the court for the first time since April 26, 2023.
The Clippers' coaching staff plans to assess Leonard's fitness on the morning of the game. Throughout his recovery, both he and the team have exercised extreme caution, mindful of the same injury sidelining him for significant stretches last season. At one point, he had to sit out the final eight games of the regular season and later struggled during the playoffs. Despite his absence this season, the Clippers have managed to find success, posting a 19-15 record and holding the second spot in the Pacific Division.
Coach Tyronn Lue commented on the importance of ensuring Leonard gets the appropriate amount of reps before returning, stating, "Making sure he’s getting the right amount of reps is very important for us and for him. We’ve been cautious, but he has been progressing well." He’s been putting in a lot of work to get to this point, Lue added.
Leonard's injury history paints a complex picture. Following his torn ACL sustained during the 2021 playoffs, he missed the entirety of the 2021-22 season and struggled with various knee issues last year, including missing significant time during the 2023 playoffs. During this most recent off-season, he attempted to make the USA Basketball roster but was replaced by guard Derrick White due to concerns over the knee's condition.
Statistically, Leonard has proven to be invaluable to the Clippers, averaging 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists last season over the 68 games he played, highlighting just how impactful he can be when on the court. His contributions have made him one of the most respected players, garnering accolades like six All-Star selections and two NBA Finals MVP awards.
While Leonard was absent, Norman Powell stepped up significantly, leading the team with 23.6 points per game, compared to last season’s 13.9. Meanwhile, James Harden, brought to the Clippers this season, has adeptly taken charge of the offensive flow, stating recently, Whenever Kawhi’s return is... I just said, 'Just work your way in.' I think, for our aggressiveness and our team, we’re going to still play the same way. Harden's confidence reflects the chemistry built up throughout Leonard's absence.
The team has focused on their defensive prowess this season, ranking within the top five defensively. Still, their offense has ranked among the bottom ten, underlining the pressing need for Leonard's return to give the squad the scoring punch necessary to secure wins. Should Leonard step onto the court against the Hawks, it would mark the first time he plays alongside newly acquired talent and established stars.
A key detail to keep under consideration as the game approaches is the prospect of Leonard being on minutes restriction to ease him back after his long absence. Coach Lue acknowledged the reality; the team's medical staff, alongside Leonard, is dedicated to taking measured steps for gradual reintegration. On the surface, this return creates anxiety yet excitement. He doesn’t want to just come over and mess up the flow and chemistry we have been building up, Harden reflected, directly underlining the balance between confidence and caution as they prepare for Leonard's debut.
The anticipation surrounding Saturday's game reflects Leonard's importance to the Clippers both strategically and emotionally. Fans and teammates alike are hopeful this return can propel them toward their championship aspirations. With their current form and Leonard joining the mix, the potential for the Clippers to launch their season with renewed vigor is encouraging.