Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard will miss the next four games, including the December 27 clash against the Golden State Warriors, as he continues his recovery from a right knee injury. The team announced that Leonard will stay in Los Angeles to practice with their G League affiliate, the San Diego Clippers, though he won't participate in any games during this period.
Despite fully participating in recent practice sessions, Leonard remains on the sidelines as the medical team monitors his progress. The earliest projected return date for the former NBA Finals MVP is January 4, 2025, when the Clippers face the Atlanta Hawks, though team sources emphasize this timeline isn't set in stone.
The knee injury has given
Kawhi Leonard a lot of trouble since the 2024 NBA Playoffs, significantly impacting his availability. His recovery faced another hurdle when he experienced a setback during Team USA practice sessions leading up to the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, further complicating his return to full fitness.
Leonard won't play for Los Angeles Clippers to start the season while rehabbing knee, report says (Image via AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
Despite Leonard's absence, the
Los Angeles Clippers have managed to maintain a competitive position in the Western Conference. Currently sitting at 17-13 and holding the sixth seed, they've shown great adaptability to their star player's absence. The team looks to build momentum as they face the Warriors, having already secured victories in both previous matchups this season.
The cautious approach to Kawhi Leonard's recovery reflects the Clippers' long-term vision for their championship aspirations. With the playoff race heating up in the Western Conference, the team's management of Leonard's return is crucial in their pursuit of a deep postseason run.
The Clippers fans are currently anxiously awaiting more information regarding Leonard's condition as the team attempts to get through this difficult period without their star player. If the anticipated return date of January 4 is to occur, the upcoming weeks will be crucial.
Golden State Warriors vs Los Angeles Clippers projected starters
Golden State Warriors projected starters
| Player Name | Jersey # | Position | PTS | REB | AST |
| Dennis Schröder | #71 | G | 17.0 | 2.7 | 6.2 |
| Buddy Hield | #7 | G | 13.6 | 3.3 | 1.3 |
| Draymond Green | #23 | F | 8.5 | 6.2 | 5.6 |
| Andrew Wiggins | #22 | F | 17.5 | 4.4 | 2.4 |
| Trayce Jackson-Davis | #32 | F | 7.9 | 5.3 | 2.1 |
Also read:
Golden State Warriors vs Los Angeles Clippers (12/27) game preview: Projected starters, prediction, best betting props, odds and betting lines, injury report, how to watch, and moreLos Angeles Clippers projected starters
| Player Name | Jersey # | Position | PTS | REB | AST |
| James Harden | #1 | G | 22.0 | 6.5 | 8.1 |
| Norman Powell | #24 | G | 24.1 | 3.3 | 2.6 |
| Kris Dunn | #8 | G | 6.8 | 3.5 | 2.7 |
| Derrick Jones Jr. | #55 | F | 9.9 | 3.3 | 0.9 |
| Ivica Zubac | #40 | C | 15.2 | 12.6 | 2.5 |
The Los Angeles Clippers will be hosting the Golden State Warriors tonight. Let us know in the comments down below who you are rooting for in tonight's game. Also let us know if you feel Kawhi Leonard's absence will gravely affect the performance of the team.
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