The Los Angeles Clippers' fanbase will need to exercise patience at the start of the new NBA season as star forward Kawhi Leonard is slated to miss the initial games. Leonard, a key figure on the Clippers roster, is rehabilitating his right knee, which continues to grapple with inflammation. This development prolongs a series of misfortunes for the two-time NBA Finals MVP, who has been sidelined by injuries in recent seasons.
Leonard's history with knee injuries is well-documented, having torn the ACL in the same knee during the 2021 playoffs. This injury forced him to miss the entire 2021-22 NBA season. In an unfortunate twist, he then tore his meniscus during the 2023 playoffs. Leonard underwent a procedure in May to address the latest setback and has since been in rehabilitation.
The Clippers have taken a cautious stance regarding his rehabilitation process. According to Brian Shaw, an assistant coach with the Clippers, Leonard "has not been a part of what we've been doing on a daily basis." The team is carefully monitoring his progress, leaving Leonard’s return indefinite. The strategic approach to his recovery underscores the Clippers’ commitment to ensuring his long-term health. Lawrence Frank, the Clippers’ team president, noted, "The goal is to get him 100% so he can have a great season, not just this year but for many years."
Despite Leonard's absence from team activities, optimism abounds within the Clippers organization regarding his recovery. "We're trending in a really, really good direction," Frank stated, exuding cautious optimism about Leonard’s progress. Reports from late September suggested that the swelling in Leonard's knee was "almost gone," a positive signal for those closely watching his journey back to the court.
Adjustments in the Lineup
With Leonard sidelined, the Clippers are making strategic adjustments to their lineup. The departure of Paul George in free agency has further necessitated a restructuring of their defensive and offensive strategies. Derrick Jones Jr. and Terance Mann are stepping in to assume defensive responsibilities, a critical area in which Leonard's presence will be missed. On the offensive end, James Harden and Norman Powell are anticipated to spearhead the Clippers' scoring efforts.
The absence of a defined timeline for Leonard’s return adds a layer of uncertainty for the Clippers’ coaching staff and management. Frank addressed this, noting, "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."
The Road Ahead
Leonard’s journey back to full health is marked by a diligent focus on his rehabilitation regime. As Shaw pointed out, "He’s doing everything he can to rehab it and strengthen that knee on his own, with our medical staff." This relentless commitment is a testament to Leonard's determination and the Clippers’ efforts to enable his comeback.
Despite his injury struggles, Leonard's calibre is unquestionable. Last season, he achieved the honor of being named to the All-NBA Second Team, an accolade that reflects his talent and impact on the game when healthy. His potential return is eagerly anticipated by fans and the league alike, given the dynamic influence he brings to the Clippers both on and off the court.
For now, the Clippers will navigate the early stages of the season without their star player but with an eye toward his successful return. The strategy remains clear: ensure Leonard's full recovery to bolster the Clippers’ aspirations not only for this season but for many seasons to come. As Frank succinctly put it, "We're in a really good place, but we want to keep it in a good place."