Kawhi Leonard's Absence Continues to Loom Over Clippers' Start to the Season
The Los Angeles Clippers are gearing up for another challenging NBA season; however, they are doing so without one of their most pivotal players, Kawhi Leonard. The star forward is once again sidelined due to ongoing issues with his right knee, creating a cloud of uncertainty as the team attempts to move forward without him at the helm.
Leonard's infamous injury woes have been well-documented in recent years. During the 2021 playoffs, Leonard suffered a ruptured ACL in his right knee, an injury that forced him to miss the entire 2021-22 season. Just when things seemed poised for a comeback, he tore his meniscus in the same knee during the 2023 playoffs, further complicating his path back to full fitness. In May, Leonard underwent a procedure to aid his recovery, yet as of now, he remains rehabilitating, dealing with inflammation that has kept him out of training camp and away from his team's daily activities.
Clippers coach Tyronn Lue and his assistant Brian Shaw have confirmed Leonard's absence from regular activities. Shaw remarked, "He has not been a part of what we've been doing on a daily basis." The team's management is practicing patience, with Clippers team president Lawrence Frank emphasizing a cautious approach. Frank expressed, "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." This sentiment captures the essence of the Clippers' strategy: ensuring Leonard returns when he is 100% ready, aiming for him not only to be impactful this season but for many seasons to come.
Despite the setbacks, there's optimism within the organization regarding Leonard's recovery trajectory. Frank noted, "We're trending in a really, really good direction," suggesting that while Leonard's timeline remains fluid, there's confidence in his eventual return. As of late September, reports indicated that the swelling in Leonard's knee was "almost gone," a promising sign as he seeks to regain his defensive prowess and offensive finesse on the court.
In Leonard's absence, the Clippers have had to rethink their lineup and reassign responsibilities. The departure of Paul George in free agency exacerbates the challenge, demanding adjustments from other team members. Defensive duties have been allocated to Derrick Jones Jr. and Terance Mann, while James Harden and Norman Powell are expected to lead offensively, stepping into roles that Leonard would typically inhabit.
Amidst the inevitable reshuffles, the Clippers’ management remains focused on keeping the team in a positive trajectory. "We're in a really good place, but we want to keep it in a good place," declared Frank, alluding to both Leonard's rehabilitation and the broader team dynamic. Indeed, last season saw Leonard named to the All-NBA Second Team—a testament to his extraordinary talent—even while contending with persistent injuries. It leaves many wondering what heights he could attain if afforded a respite from his physical setbacks.
As the Clippers prepare to tip off the new season without Leonard, fans and the basketball community alike are left in anticipation. The hope is not just for Leonard's successful return but for a rejuvenation that allows him to shine consistently throughout a full season. Until then, the Clippers will forge ahead, their immediate plans revolving around unity and adaptation, while holding a collective breath for the return of their marquee star.