As the Clippers gear up for their season opener against the Suns, a shadow looms over the Intuit Dome. Kawhi Leonard, their star player, is ‘out’ in ESPN’s injury report, which is a significant loss for the team. After playing 68 games last season—the most since joining the Clippers—he faced knee issues, with inflammation first flaring up on March 31 against the Hornets. It seems likely that the Klaw will miss some matches this season, leaving fans concerned, especially since he already had ample rehab time all summer.

Yes, he is. ESPN’s Shams Charania says, ” I’m told Kawhi Leonard will be missing weeks. This is not an injury that’s going to be measured by a week, two weeks, potentially, not days, obviously. This will be an extended period of time that the Clippers are starting this season without him. But until they feel they have a plan and a protocol, this place that will allow him when he is ready to return to actually sustain his play on the court.”

His absence for several weeks will significantly impact the LA side’s offensive and defensive strategies. Without their star player, the team will need to rely on role players to step up alongside veteran James Harden, which could lead to adjustments in game plans and rotations. Additionally, this injury raises concerns about his long-term health.

However, the Clippers must balance his recovery with the need to compete in a tough Western Conference. The pressure will be on other key players to maintain momentum. Charania continues, “In the meantime, it’s gonna be about James Harden leading this team. He told me he knows Kawhi Leonard and wants to play. He wants to play every game as much as he possibly can.”

Well, Shams is right. Here’s how. During the preseason, the Beard showcased his ability to contribute, averaging 12 points per game. He had standout performances, including 14 points against the Nets and 10 points against the Mavs. As the LA Clippers move forward without the Klaw, James Harden’s leadership will be crucial for the team’s success.

But Shams too believes that the Clippers cannot do with their champ. “But they know Kawhi Leonard. When he is in luck. They can’t have him beat in and out. Like he was in the playoffs like he was late last season, they need him because that is the only way that this team is gonna compete for a championship. James Harden is ready. He is fine. He’s been a leader and I think we will see how far he can lead this team.”

He is right about the ‘when he is in luck’ part, for example, in the 2023 playoff Game 1 against the Suns, the hooper registered 38 points while hitting crucial late 3-pointers, while his teammate Russell Westbrook struggled with his shooting. This led to a 115-110 victory for the Clippers. However, his absence now puts immense pressure on the Clippers’ depth and strategy.

How have the Clippers managed without Kawhi Leonard in the past?

This is not the first time Leonard is dealing with an injury. He missed the entire 2021-22 season because of a torn ACL. Since joining the Clippers in 2019, he has missed 179 of 435 possible games. The hooper’s injury history raises concerns about the team’s long-term success, especially now.

Currently, inflammation in Kawhi Leonard’s knee has sidelined him. But here is how the team has played or rather managed without him. He missed the playoff opener against the Dallas Mavericks, earlier this year, leaving a significant gap. Paul George, another key player, is no more a part of the Clippers, and the part of 76ers. Now, James Harden and the remaining roster must step up.

In Game 1 against the Mavs, Harden and PG tried to fill the void. They had also built a 29-point third-quarter lead but struggled to maintain it. The Clippers ended up winning 109-97, but it wasn’t easy. The Beard scored 28 points while contributing to the team’s playmaking with 8 assists, while PG contributed 22 points, demonstrating his leadership.

However, can the LA side sustain itself and its progress without their talisman’s impact? That’s when head coach Tyronn Lue expressed uncertainty about Kawhi Leonard’s return, stating, “Like I said, he’s progressing. He was on the floor the last couple of days and we’re not sure. We’re just taking it day by day.” The urgency was clear as the playoffs advanced. Missing their main guy, a crucial player in high-stakes moments jeopardizes the Clippers’ championship hopes.

The team’s depth was tested as they navigated this difficult stretch. With the hopes of a fresh start, injuries have again been a concern. Without the Klaw, the pressure intensifies on Harden and others. Will the Clippers adapt effectively? What do you think?