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[Saba Sports News] Kawhi Leonard is currently sidelined for multiple games due to a knee injury, yet the situation doesn’t seem overly concerning at this point. The LA Clippers forward was absent for Friday’s matchup against the Utah Jazz, marking his absence in both games of a back-to-back set, following a loss to the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday and a win against the Denver Nuggets on Thursday. Originally, the Clippers cited “right knee soreness” for Leonard’s absence, which has since been updated to “right knee inflammation.”
Following the announcement of Leonard’s absence for Friday’s game, Clippers journalist Tomer Azarly provided an important update. Leonard had a precautionary MRI upon his return to Los Angeles, which revealed no significant issues, according to Azarly’s report. This indicates Leonard is not expected to miss an extended period that would jeopardize his participation in the playoffs.
Throughout this season, Leonard has demonstrated resilience, playing in 68 out of 76 games, including back-to-back sets, ensuring his eligibility for All-NBA consideration. With the Clippers solidly in the mix for the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference, thanks to a two-game lead and a tiebreaker advantage over the No. 5 seed Dallas Mavericks, Leonard and the team have the leeway to prioritize his health cautiously.
Given that Leonard’s ACL tear in 2021 involved the same knee, his injury history adds a layer of caution to his return. However, for now, Clippers supporters have a reason for mild optimism as the regular season approaches its conclusion.