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Worries surrounding Kawhi Leonard's fitness have been prominent in the build-up to the LA Clippers' 2024-25 NBA season. He is not scheduled to play in the team's second preseason matchup against the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday.
Leonard has faced significant injuries throughout his caree and also been sidelined since suffering knee inflammation shortly before the postseason in April. He is also not included in Tyronn Lue's preseason five-on-five drills and a return date has yet to be determined.
The Clippers knew they would need a stroke of luck on the injury front to avoid the post-season collapses they've experienced in recent years. Keeping Kawhi Leonard healthy and be at his best for the entire season, especially during the playoffs is crucial.
If their pre-season warm-up game is anything to go by, Ty Lue looks set to rely on seven-foot Ivica Zubac and James Harden to lead the line for the team.
Zubac, the longest-serving player on the roster, looked fairly comfortable in the opening preseason game against the Warriors. He scored 14 points, six rebounds and a solid 5-of-6 shooting performance in 18 minutes. Despite his efforts, the team fell short in a 91-90 loss. Meanwhile, James Harden added 13 points, eight assists and two rebounds.
Kawhi Leonard gets candid about his knee concerns
As the start of the new NBA season ticks closer, Kawhi Leonard insisted he is "getting stronger and getting ready" as he works his way back to fitness.
Leonard underwent a knee procedure during the offseason, which also caused him to miss the Paris Olympics. As a result, he has been limited in training camp to focus on strengthening his knee and preparing for the season.
Speaking to Ohm Youngmisuk of ESPN, Kawhi Leonard explained that his rehabilitation is coming along well.
"I feel good. Just been taking my time, getting stronger and getting ready, Leonard said. “We're just taking it slow, day by day and just trying to get me back on the floor. Once those conversations come, we'll see what they're talking about [on the best approach for back-to-backs]," he added.
This suggests he won't be out for too long, which is great news as he is needed ahead of the new season coming up in the next few weeks. While Leonard expressed optimism about his progress, it remains uncertain if he will be able to play in back-to-back games this season.
