The Clippers are in a tough spot, having dropped two of their last three games while failing to score 100 points! Their recent stretch has been their worst of the season, with the LA team looking off, possibly because of injury or fatigue. They’ve lost their mojo and can’t focus on the court. And things won’t get any easier tonight. Kawhi Leonard, their best player, will unsurprisingly be out against the Utah Jazz as he continues to slowly recover from a right knee injury.

Word is that the hoopster is inching closer to making his season debut with the Clippers. Head coach, Tyronn Lue isn’t ruling out the possibility of The Klaw traveling for the upcoming games in Dallas and Memphis! He shared, “He’s progressed very well.” It’s clear that Kawhi Leonard is making significant progress, which excites the Clippers as they look forward to his much-needed return.

Leonard’s status will be re-evaluated on Tuesday, as reported by Joey Linn of SI.com. He’s been a limited participant in practice recently, so it’s still unclear when he’ll exactly return.

James Harden, Norman Powell, and Ivica Zubac have carried the load since Kawhi was sidelined. Harden, with his vast NBA experience, has brought leadership and solid play to help keep the team at a respectable 14-12 record.

When Kawhi Leonard does return, it may take him some time to get back to his usual elite form. Once he fully adjusts, the Clippers will welcome back one of the best defenders in the game! With the defensive guidance of assistant coach Jeff Van Gundy, the LA side has already developed a strong defensive identity, making The Klaw’s eventual return even more exciting.

Powell is excited for Kawhi Leonard’s debut, but what about his own minutes!?

With Leonard’s return seemingly on the horizon, one question hangs over the Clippers: how will Tyronn Lue adjust Norman Powell’s role? If Kawhi slides into the starting lineup right away, Powell’s minutes and shot attempts may drop, but his steady offensive production should remain. Having The Beard handle the ball makes the most sense, while Powell and Leonard—two key pieces—team up as the wings.

Norman Powell has been one of the standout performers for the Clippers this season, averaging a career-high 23.2 points per game. Recently, he was on The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis, where he discussed the impact of Kawhi’s return. “Him coming back is going to be huge for us,” he said. He explained how The Klaw’s presence will ease the pressure on him and his teammates.

Having Leonard back on the court means defenses can’t just focus on Powell or Harden. With Leonard drawing double-teams, Powell expects more open shots and easier opportunities, especially in catch-and-shoot situations. Opposing teams will also stop trapping or face-guarding Powell…

Surprisingly, the Clippers have managed well without their star player, but they’re on thin ice, though.

They hold a 14-12 record and sit in 9th place in the Western Conference, staying close to a playoff spot, as the table is tight with not much to separate the teams. The LA side will need both Leonard’s return and the current core to make a strong run come April. Fans are hoping to see that chemistry come together soon. What’s your prediction of the Clippers this season? Drop your thoughts below.