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It’s been months since we saw Kawhi Leonard take the floor for the Los Angeles Clippers.
Fortunately for the team, the wait is almost over.
According to a report by Shams Charania of ESPN, the former Defensive Player of the Year plans to make his season debut on Saturday vs. the Atlanta Hawks.
Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard plans to make his season debut Saturday versus the Atlanta Hawks at Intuit Dome, sources tell ESPN. Clippers upgraded Leonard to questionable tonight. pic.twitter.com/RbFHSyL8w1
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 4, 2025
After rehabbing from his perennial knee injuries, he will play his first home game at Intuit Dome.
Leonard had already spent some time with the team’s G-League affiliate, so this isn’t much of a surprise.
The Clippers are currently No. 7 in the Western Conference with a 19-15 record.
Needless to say, Leonard’s health would give them a massive boost, as we’re talking about one of the best two-way players in the league.
Then again, it’s hard to envision Leonard being healthy often for this team, especially in the playoffs.
It’s been the same story with him for years, so his return should not really change anything.
The former NBA champion will most likely be under a long-term minutes restriction.
He’s never been the kind of player who will push to be on the court unless he feels he’s close to 100%, regardless of the context or how much his team needs him.
Also, as great a player as he is, we cannot ignore that he is already 33 years old.
If anything, he will be a welcome addition to this team when he can play and for as long as he’s healthy.
NEXT:Â Insider Reveals Target Date For Kawhi Leonard’s Return
