Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard has been dealing with his knee injury for a while now. Ever since he was forced to miss most of the Clippers’ playoff games there’s been speculation about the status of his health for the upcoming season. He was sent home from Team USA’s Olympic camp shortly afterwards and the Clippers recently gave an update about Leonard’s status.
“Kawhi Leonard has not practiced with the Clippers yet,” Joey Linn reported on X. “Still rehabbing his knee.”
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This means his knee is not yet ready and although no additional setbacks have been announced, Leonard hasn’t been able to practice with his new teammates for training camp.
Leonard said during media day that he plans to play on opening night, but it would depend on how well his body reacts to the treatments. Even if this does go according to plan, he likely won’t be at 100% until he plays consistently for long enough to get back into in-season shape.
Leonard is the cornerstone of the franchise and although there are plenty of good players on the roster, this team revolves around him both as a player and as a locker room leader. Time will only tell if his knee can recover enough to suit up for the start of the regular season on Oct. 23.
James Parker is an NBA writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
