Los Angeles Clippers fans hoping for a swift start to the season led by Kawhi Leonard will have to exercise patience as the star forward is set to miss the beginning of the regular season. Leonard continues to rehabilitate his right knee, which has been plagued with inflammation. The Clippers have announced that his return is indefinite as they monitor his progress closely.
The recent developments in Leonard's health raise concerns over his availability, especially after he has not been part of the team's daily activities, as confirmed by Clippers coach Tyronn Lue. "He has not been a part of what we've been doing on a daily basis," stated Brian Shaw, Clippers assistant coach, emphasizing the team's careful approach in handling Leonard's rehabilitation, "He’s doing everything he can to rehab it and strengthen that knee on his own, with our medical staff."
Rigorous Rehabilitation
Kawhi Leonard's journey back to fitness has been an arduous one. Having torn the ACL in his right knee during the 2021 playoffs, Leonard missed the entire 2021-22 season. This setback was compounded by another injury when he tore his meniscus in the same knee during the 2023 playoffs. He underwent a procedure in May and has been on a diligent path of recovery ever since.
The Clippers' team president, Lawrence Frank, offered insights into Leonard's status, expressing optimism about his recovery trajectory while underscoring the uncertainty of setting a return date. "We're trending in a really, really good direction," he remarked. "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."
Striving for Full Fitness
The Clippers aim to ensure Leonard reaches full fitness before stepping back onto the court. The team's rehabilitation strategy involves careful monitoring and phased objectives. Frank revealed the methodical approach, stating, "The goal is to get him 100% so he can have a great season, not just this year but for many years. We'll have a detailed plan, step by step, kind of having objective measures to go from one phase to the next."
As of a late September press conference, Frank noted that the swelling in Leonard's knee was "almost gone," giving a glimmer of hope but maintaining prudence as the guiding principle. "We're in a really good place, but we want to keep it in a good place," Frank added, aiming to avoid past late-season injury debacles that have disrupted the team's campaigns.
Clippers Face New Challenges
In Leonard's absence, the Clippers face the pivotal task of restructuring their lineup for the season's start. With Paul George's departure in free agency, the defensive responsibilities now largely fall on Derrick Jones Jr. and Terance Mann. Meanwhile, James Harden and Norman Powell are expected to step up as the main offensive weapons.
Leonard’s absence is undeniably a significant hurdle for the team, but it also offers a platform for other players to shine and potentially set the stage for a deep playoff run once he returns. Last season, even amidst his struggles with injury, Leonard managed to make the All-NBA Second Team, showcasing the caliber of player the Clippers can expect when he's back to full health.
For Clippers fans, the words of comfort from the coaching staff and management provide some solace, although the lack of a clear timeline may evoke mixed emotions. As the regular season dawns, all eyes will be on Leonard's health reports, eagerly awaiting the day he can don his jersey and fortify the Clippers' ambitions once again.