The LA Clippers are headed to the Play-In Tournament as a much healthier team than it looked like they would be. However, the Clippers likely won’t be at full strength. Despite recently getting Paul George and Norman Powell back from injuries, it doesn’t seem like Kawhi Leonard will be joining them.
LA coach Ty Lue threw a little cold water on the idea that Leonard could return for the start of the postseason. When asked about Leonard’s status in his rehab, Lue said his star forward is still doing individual work. Lue confirmed Leonard hasn’t advanced to playing even 3-on-3 yet.
Leonard has missed the entire 2021-22 as he rehabs from a torn ACL suffered in last season’s playoffs. There was so hope the All-Star might return before the end of this season, but the Clippers and Leonard are being cautious to avoid any setbacks. Leonard agreed to a four-year, $176 million contract with LA this past offseason.
