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Clipper Nation held their collective breath when Kawhi Leonard exited early in Saturday’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans. “The Claw” asked to be substituted midway through the third quarter of the game and did not return.
After the game, news emerged that Leonard had suffered a facial contusion. He was scheduled to undergo some tests to check on the extent of the injury. The LA Clippers face the prospect of facing a tight battle for playoff spots without Paul George and Leonard.
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Fortunately, the two-time NBA Finals MVP may not even miss the teams’ game tonight against the Chicago Bulls. The Clippers dodged a bullet and have declared him probable against a gritty team that has one of their former teammates in Patrick Beverley.
Kawhi Leonard has played just 109 games in his first two seasons with the LA Clippers. He sat out last year due to an ACL injury and has played just 46 games this season. Every time Leonard is sidelined with another injury, social media is abuzz with trolling, criticism and ridicule.
The Clippers could exhale in relief after Leonard’s probable designation tonight.
What is Kawhi Leonard’s status against the Chicago Bulls?
Kawhi Leonard could play tonight against the Chicago Bulls as he is ruled probable by the LA Clippers. The two-time Defensive Player of the Year winner was also cleared of concussion after tests were administered.
LA’s doctors and training staff will be closely monitoring him during this morning's shootaround and pregame warmups. Barring any setbacks, he should be back today to lead the Clippers against the visiting Bulls.
What is Kawhi Leonard’s impact on the LA Clippers?
The LA Clippers were one of the favorites to win the 2023 NBA championships. LA’s depth, particularly on the wings, is nearly unmatched in the league. They have Paul George, one of the game’s smoothest and toughest operators on both ends of the floor.
Most importantly, the Clippers have Kawhi Leonard.
When healthy, “The Claw” has proven time and again that he’s one of the biggest winners in the NBA. His resume speaks for itself. Leonard’s ability to dominate on offense and defense when the need arises is something few teams have at their disposal.
Kawhi Leonard is averaging 23.7 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 3.9 apg and 1.5 spg. He is hitting 51.2% of his shots, including 40.0% from behind the arc. Leonard is looking more and more like the Kawhi teams have come to respect as the season has progressed.
Without Paul George and Norman Powell, Leonard will be out to lead the LA Clippers (39-36) to at least a top-four finish. They trail the Phoenix Suns (39-35) by half a game for the fourth seed and first-round playoff home-court advantage.
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