"Christmas 2026?": NBA fans roast Kawhi Leonard after reports of Clippers star's injury return surface

The LA Clippers are 14-10 this season without Kawhi Leonard not having played a single game. They are sixth in the Western Conference despite roughly three months without the two-time NBA Finals MVP. The Clippers have a better record than the LA Lakers (12-10) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (11-10), who have had their superstars largely healthy this season.

After months of waiting, The Klaw could return to the lineup. Ty Lue could have his best player just in time for a slate of brutal road games around Christmas.

Fans reacted to the news of Kawhi Leonard’s possible return:

“christmas 2026?”

One fan said:

“Does kawhi know that?”

Another fan added:

“Then sit out for another 30 games”

@dbookownsyou continued:

“Let’s see how long he’ll last

“Over/under 5 games?”

@dgsire asserted:

“we don't believe that”

Boston Celtics fanatic Bill Simmons started the Kawhi Leonard buzz when he said in the latest episode of his podcast:

“My Clippers guy was telling me Kawhi’s coming back before Christmas. I think he’s ramped up. He’s ramped up and ready to go.”

Just how reliable and credible Simmons’ source is is anybody’s guess. Leonard’s last appearance was in Game 3 in the first round of the playoffs against the Dallas Mavericks. He played 25 minutes and finished with nine points, nine rebounds and two assists. The Clippers eventually shut him down after the inflammation in his surgically repaired right knee refused to go away.

Kawhi Leonard then joined the Team USA training camp before he ultimately pulled out. He told reporters that ensuring his knee was healthy was the top priority over the summer so he gave up on his national team duties.

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Kawhi Leonard could return on Dec. 16 against the Utah Jazz

The LA Clippers announced early this month that Dec. 16 would be the “Kawhi Leonard Bobblehead Night.” Giveaways featuring Leonard in Santa Claus gear will go to fans when the team hosts the Utah Jazz. The event likely signals the season debut of the two-time champ.

Clippers insider Tomer Azarly reported in mid-November that the six-time All-Star has been cleared to do shooting drills. Last week, videos of Leonard doing on-court work surfaced. The oft-injured star’s progress must have been steady and without setbacks, as the team announced a special event for him in his potential return.

After hosting the Jazz, the Clippers take a brutal road swing that includes games against the Dallas Mavericks twice and the Memphis Grizzlies. Ty Lue and team fans would be happy to see him play even if for limited minutes.