Kawhi Leonard's Absence Looms Large for Clippers as Knee Rehabilitation Continues
As the NBA season approaches, Los Angeles Clippers fans face an early setback with the news that Kawhi Leonard will not be ready to start the season. Leonard, who has been a pivotal figure for the Clippers, is sidelined yet again as he rehabilitates his right knee, which is suffering from persistent inflammation.
After tearing his ACL during the 2021 playoffs, Leonard missed the entire 2021-22 season. His struggles continued through the 2023 playoffs with a torn meniscus in the same knee, leading to a medical procedure in May. The Clippers are taking a cautious approach to his rehabilitation, emphasizing long-term health and performance over rushing him back onto the court. As of late September, the swelling in Leonard's knee was reportedly "almost gone," but his return remains indefinite.
Clippers' head coach, Tyronn Lue, confirmed through assistant coach Brian Shaw that Leonard has "not been a part of what we've been doing on a daily basis," highlighting the current disconnect between Leonard's individual rehabilitation efforts and team activities. Shaw noted, "He’s doing everything he can to rehab it and strengthen that knee on his own, with our medical staff." Leonard's commitment to returning at full strength is evident, but patience is required as both player and team navigate these health challenges.
Lawrence Frank, the Clippers' team president, offered a glimpse into the team's outlook on Leonard's situation. "We're trending in a really, really good direction," Frank stated, conveying cautious optimism about Leonard's rehab progress. He emphasized the importance of not rushing the process, remarking, "I know he's super determined to have a really, really great year, but the timing -- I think, when it comes to your body and your health, I don't think you put timeframes on it." Frank's comments underscore the Clippers’ strategic focus on Leonard's complete recovery, aiming to ensure he is 100% fit not just for this season, but for many seasons to come.
The uncertainty surrounding Leonard's return has prompted the Clippers to restructure their lineup as they brace for his absence at the start of the season. The departure of Paul George in free agency has further necessitated strategic adjustments, with Derrick Jones Jr. and Terance Mann stepping in to shoulder key defensive responsibilities. On the offensive end, the team is placing its hopes on James Harden and Norman Powell, who are expected to carry the main scoring load in Leonard's absence.
Despite the setbacks, Leonard's talent and resilience have shone through in past performances. Even with injury struggles last season, Leonard earned a spot on the All-NBA Second Team, a testament to his impact on the court when healthy. However, with the Clippers' coaching staff and management refraining from setting a concrete timeline for his return, fans and teammates alike are left in anticipation.
As the Clippers reconfigure their dynamics to accommodate the current roster situation, the focus remains squarely on maintaining a stable environment for Leonard’s eventual return. Frank conveyed a sense of comfort with the state of affairs: "We're in a really good place, but we want to keep it in a good place," pointing to the team's ongoing commitment to supporting Leonard's rehabilitation while also staying competitive in his absence.
The Clippers’ season will indeed commence under a cloud of uncertainty with Leonard's indefinite absence, but equipped with strategic adjustments and a focus on long-term success, they hope to navigate the early challenges and pave the way for a triumphant comeback for their star player.