Kawhi Leonard Sidelined Indefinitely As Los Angeles Clippers Start NBA Season

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The Los Angeles Clippers are set to start the season without Kawhi Leonard, who is recovering from knee inflammation. Last season, Leonard played 68 games, his most since 2016-17 with the San Antonio Spurs. However, he missed the last eight regular-season games and only appeared in two playoff matches against the Dallas Mavericks.

Leonard has not participated in on-court activities during training camp. Instead, he is concentrating on knee rehabilitation. "He has not been a part of what we've been doing on a daily basis," said Clippers assistant coach Brian Shaw. "I know the company line has been that we're going to be patient with him."

Leonard led the Clippers last season with an average of 23.7 points and 1.63 steals per game. He was second in rebounding (6.1), blocks (0.87), and three-point shooting percentage (41.7), while ranking third in assists (3.6). The team finished with a 51-31 record, winning the Pacific Division for the first time since 2013-14.

With Leonard sidelined indefinitely and Paul George joining the Philadelphia 76ers during the offseason, Los Angeles will rely on James Harden for offensive leadership. Harden, a former NBA MVP and 10-time All-Star, is expected to fill this crucial role.

Leonard's absence will be felt as he continues his rehabilitation process alongside the medical staff. The team remains hopeful for his return but focuses on managing with available players for now.