The Los Angeles Clippers will begin their new season without one of their key stars, Kawhi Leonard. The versatile forward is set to miss the opening games as he continues on a rigorous rehabilitation path for his right knee, which has been plagued by inflammation. This development follows a series of setbacks that have kept Leonard on the sidelines or limited throughout much of his recent career.
A History of Setbacks
Kawhi Leonard's struggles with his right knee date back to 2021, when he tore his ACL during the playoffs. After missing the entire 2021-22 season, Leonard made his return only to face another blow during the 2023 playoffs, tearing his meniscus in the same knee. As a result, Leonard underwent a surgical procedure in May and is now working diligently towards recovery, though the Clippers have yet to provide a definite timeline for his return.
Even as Leonard remains absent from the team's daily activities, Clippers assistant coach Brian Shaw offered some insight, saying, "He has not been a part of what we've been doing on a daily basis. He’s doing everything he can to rehab it and strengthen that knee on his own, with our medical staff." With swelling reportedly "almost gone" as of late September, Leonard is making progress, but his path back to the court remains carefully managed by the team’s medical experts.
Strategic Adjustments
The absence of Leonard has prompted the Clippers to make significant adjustments to their game plan and lineup. In the offseason, Paul George left the team via free agency, adding another layer of complexity to their strategy. As the Clippers reorganize, Derrick Jones Jr. and Terance Mann have stepped up to handle the defensive duties that Leonard would typically command. Offensively, heavy expectations now fall on the shoulders of James Harden and Norman Powell to drive the team's scoring efforts.
The commitment to a patient and meticulous approach to Leonard's rehabilitation is echoed by Lawrence Frank, the Clippers' team president. "We're trending in a really, really good direction," Frank expressed, while maintaining a firm stance on the importance of not rushing Leonard's return. "The goal is to get him 100% so he can have a great season, not just this year but for many years," Frank added, highlighting the team's long-term vision for Leonard’s health and performance.
An Optimistic Outlook
Despite the setbacks, Leonard's journey is marked by determination and optimism from both him and the organization. "I know he's super determined to have a really, really great year," Frank noted, emphasizing Leonard’s drive. The Clippers’ primary aim is to balance short-term aspirations with a sustainable approach, ensuring Leonard can contribute effectively for seasons to come. "We're in a really good place, but we want to keep it in a good place," Frank concluded, underscoring the importance of maintaining Leonard’s current progress without escalating expectations precipitously.
Leonard's resilience and the team’s strategic maneuvers will define the Clippers' upcoming season in many ways. As a player who has consistently delivered standout performances, even amidst injuries—most notably being named to the All-NBA Second Team last season—Leonard's potential return is eagerly anticipated. Until then, the Clippers will look to their retooled lineup to navigate the challenges of a fiercely competitive league.
All eyes will be on Leonard and the Clippers as the new season unfolds, with fans and analysts alike keen to see how the team's dynamic evolves and how quickly Leonard can rejoin the fold. For now, caution and optimism remain the guiding principles of the Clippers’ strategy both on and off the court.