Kawhi Leonard Likely to Make Season Debut Against Atlanta Hawks

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Kawhi Leonard Likely to Make Season Debut Against Atlanta Hawks

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APNEWS

REUTERS

Kawhi Leonard Likely to Make Season Debut Against Atlanta Hawks

Credited from: APNEWS

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — After enduring a lengthy absence, Kawhi Leonard of the Los Angeles Clippers has been upgraded to questionable for an anticipated season debut against the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday, according to reports from AP News and Reuters. Leonard has been sidelined due to right knee inflammation, a recurring issue that has left him unable to play since April 26, when he competed in the playoffs against the Dallas Mavericks.

The 33-year-old forward has faced significant injury setbacks throughout his career, missing 290 regular-season games over the past eight years, including an entire season in 2021-22 due to a torn ACL. Despite these challenges, Leonard has maintained an impressive career average of 20 points per game.

Last season, Leonard played 68 games, his highest since the 2016-17 season, and he was a vital part of the Clippers' play-off campaign. Notably, he was replaced on the U.S. Olympic team due to concerns regarding his knee's condition before the Paris Games. “This is just my journey,” said Leonard earlier this summer, reflecting on his injury challenges and his endeavor to keep inspiring others.

This season, the Clippers currently hold a 19-15 record and sit in seventh place in the Western Conference standings. They are just one game behind local rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, and are looking to regain momentum after suffering two consecutive losses.