Los Angeles Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue recently provided insights into Kawhi Leonard’s recovery, as the star forward moves closer to a return.
Reports indicate Leonard could rejoin the team before Christmas, but Lue emphasized the importance of a cautious approach.
“He has to do a lot more things to really get back on the floor… make sure he’s 100%,” Lue said, according to Law Murray. “We don’t want to get him out there at 70%, 75%. Let’s just take our time, make sure we get it right.… we’re not going to let him skip steps.”
Leonard, a two-time NBA Finals MVP, has been sidelined since the conclusion of the 2023-24 regular season due to right knee inflammation. This injury has kept him out of the current campaign, marking another chapter in the star’s ongoing struggles with health since joining the Clippers in 2019.
The latest setback dates back to July 2024, when Leonard experienced complications during the U.S. national team camp ahead of the Paris Olympics. The recurrence of knee issues forced Leonard to withdraw from the event, derailing his offseason preparations.
In Leonard’s absence, the Clippers have leaned on James Harden and Norman Powell to carry the load. Despite the challenges, Los Angeles has maintained a competitive 14-11 record, currently ranking sixth in the Western Conference.
