All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard is trending toward a return. The LA Clippers upgraded Leonard to questionable for Thursday night’s marquee matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers after he missed the previous three games with a left knee contusion.
There is no guarantee Leonard suits up, but the designation marks a positive step after early concern that the issue could linger. The Clippers removed Leonard from their rotation late last week and sent him back to Los Angeles for treatment, prioritizing caution over short-term availability.
What Happened and Why the Optimism Is Real
Leonard’s knee irritation surfaced during the Clippers’ recent road swing. Per Chris Haynes, Leonard dealt with soreness for nearly a week before the team pulled him ahead of its MLK Day game in Washington. Haynes reported the contusion was “not seen as anything serious,” with a one-week absence expected and a reevaluation upon the team’s return home.
Additional context matters. According to Tomer Azarly, Leonard took two hits to the same knee during a Jan. 10 loss to the Detroit Pistons, absorbing contact from Ausar Thompson and Paul Reed on the second night of a back-to-back after facing the Brooklyn Nets. The team’s decision to shut him down briefly now appears preventative rather than reactive.
Impact on Thursday and What Comes Next
Leonard’s availability would be significant. Los Angeles snapped a six-game winning streak Tuesday in a lopsided loss to the Chicago Bulls, playing short-handed without its star. Still, the Clippers have won 13 of their last 16 after a 6-21 start, climbing to 10th in the West at 19-24.
If Leonard sits again, the offensive burden falls heavier on James Harden, with Leonard’s next chance to return coming Sunday against Brooklyn. Minutes monitoring is also in play; Leonard averaged about 30 minutes in his four games prior to the absence.
When available, Leonard played at an All-NBA level: 28.2 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 2.2 steals, and 2.9 threes per game on elite efficiency. He appeared in 30 of 43 games and the Clippers are 15-15 when he plays, compared to 4-9 when he doesn’t.
Thursday’s status may be “questionable,” but the direction is clear and for the Clippers, that alone is encouraging.