Kawhi Leonard made a much-anticipated return to the Los Angeles Clippers’ starting lineup as they faced the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night.
Leonard’s comeback marks the first time he has seen NBA action since April 26, during the Clippers’ playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks. The forward had been sidelined for the team’s initial 34 games of the current season due to recovery from a right knee injury. His absence had been keenly felt as the Clippers navigated the early stages of their season.
Head coach Tyronn Lue noted that Leonard is subject to a minutes restriction, stating, “This is like his preseason and training camp because he hasn’t had that. Everybody who’s playing tonight had a training camp and they played 30-35 games. We’re going to make sure we bring him back slowly. It’s a great step in the right direction tonight, but we’ve got to make sure we’re doing it the right way.”
Leonard’s recent history has been plagued by injuries, missing 290 regular-season games over the past eight years, including an entire season due to knee issues incurred during the 2021 Western Conference semifinals against Utah. His most recent participation was limited to two playoff games last season, after which he was also selected for the Olympic team but had to withdraw from the training camp owing to knee concerns.
The Clippers have also welcomed back guard Terance Mann, who rejoined the lineup after recuperating from a broken left middle finger. His return, coupled with Leonard’s, introduces challenges and opportunities as the team seeks to determine effective player roles and rotations.
The Clippers embarked on this matchup with a 19-15 record, positioning them seventh in the Western Conference standings. Coach Lue emphasized the need for strategic adjustments, noting the complexity of reintegrating key players, “So just going back to the drawing board, trying to find the right rotation and guys who play well with each other. And so that’s going to be the toughest task.”
Kawhi Leonard’s return is a significant milestone for the Los Angeles Clippers. While his playing time will be carefully managed to ensure full recovery, his presence is a vital boost to the team as they aim to improve their standing in the Western Conference.
Source: News4jax
