Kawhi Leonard, the esteemed forward for the Los Angeles Clippers, is poised to return to the hardwood in the upcoming NBA Playoffs Game 2 against Luka Dončić and the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday, as announced by head coach Ty Lue. Leonard’s anticipated comeback follows an absence caused by knee inflammation, marking his first game since late March.
After missing the Clippers’ initial playoff encounter due to ongoing knee issues, Kawhi Leonard’s return could not be timelier. Leonard, sidelined since March 31 due to inflammation in his surgically repaired knee, has been missing in action for nine consecutive games, including the regular season’s close. His readiness to play has been bolstered by recent, more intensive practice sessions, including shooting drills and on-court movements, signaling potential readiness for Game 2.
Coach Ty Lue expressed cautious optimism about Leonard’s playoff prospects, emphasizing a day-by-day approach to his recovery. “His progress has been good; he’s been active in practice. We are hopeful but are monitoring his condition closely,” Lue remarked to the press.
Leonard’s playoff campaigns have been plagued by injuries, missing crucial games in previous seasons, including the last three games against the Phoenix Suns during last year’s playoffs due to a torn meniscus. Historically, the Clippers have rarely enjoyed a fully fit roster in the postseason, with 2020 being the exception when Leonard and teammate Paul George led the team together.
This season, Leonard has been a critical player for the Clippers, participating in 68 games—the highest since his tenure with the San Antonio Spurs in 2016-17. He has averaged 23.7 points, leading the team, along with 6.1 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game. His impressive performance secured him a spot on Team USA for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
As Leonard gears up to rejoin Paul George and possibly James Harden, the trio is expected to enhance the Clippers’ offensive strategy against the Mavericks, following a 109-97 victory in Game 1. The Clippers are now strategically positioned to potentially secure a 2-0 series lead with Leonard back on the team roster for Tuesday’s crucial showdown.