USA Today via Reuters
Jun 14, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) shoots against the Utah Jazz during the first half in game four in the second round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Jun 14, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) shoots against the Utah Jazz during the first half in game four in the second round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
When Kawhi Leonard entered free agency after winning the championship with the Raptors, one thing was clear that he was headed to a bigger market. One of the biggest favorites though were the Lakers. But Kawhi shocked the basketball world as he signed with the Clippers.
With one of the most stacked teams in the league, it was clear that the Clippers were favorites to win the title in the 2019-20 season. But a shocking display by Kawhi and Paul George in a game 7 meant disaster as they were ousted by the Nuggets. Last season though the scenario was very different.
USA Today via Reuters
Mar 15, 2021; Dallas, Texas, USA; LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) drives to the basket as Dallas Mavericks forward Dorian Finney-Smith (10) defends during the second half at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
With their city rivals struggling with injuries, the Western Conference was wide open. Kawhi and the Clippers certainly looked like one of the favorites to conquer West as they won their first two rounds despite going 2-0 down. But it did come at a huge cost as Leonard had a knee injury and was sidelined. The Clippers lacked the firepower and were eventually defeated.
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Latest reports on the injury to Kawhi Leonard
While the injury to Kawhi was pretty much unknown initially, the Clippers later clarified that ‘the Klaw’ indeed had a partial tear on his ACL. Given how lengthy the recovery times can be, it is understandable that fans are worried for Kawhi.
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Although the medical team of the team hasn’t given a specific timeline, we might see an early return of the 2-time Finals MVP. According to the latest reports by Sports Illustrated, Kawhi is ahead of his schedule for the ACL rehab.
USA Today via Reuters
Dec 25, 2020; Denver, Colorado, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Paul George (13) celebrates with forward Serge Ibaka (9) and forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during a timeout in the third quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
This is certainly incredible news for Clippers fans all around the world. Given how essential Kawhi was for the team in the playoffs and even in the regular season, he is a must if the Clippers want to be a contender,
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These reports certainly suggest that Leonard might be back for the Clippers this season. This means that if Paul George does lead the Clippers to the playoffs and Kawhi is probably back in time, LAC will certainly be a big challenger in the Western Conference.
Will Kawhi and the Clippers make a real push for the NBA championship this season? Let us know in the comments section down below.
