Why is Kawhi Leonard not playing tonight in Team USA vs Canada exhibition game at Las Vegas? Latest update on Clippers star's status

When Kawhi Leonard was first selected for Team USA, many were skeptical due to his extensive injury history. As the group gets ready for their series of showcase games before the Olympics, the LA Clippers star won't be participating.

On the day that Team USA is set to face off in Canada, news broke regarding Leonard's status. Shams Charania reported that the two-time Finals MVP is withdrawing from the Summer games due to injury.

Kawhi Leonard is leaving Team USA because he was battling chronic knee soreness. As far as a replacement goes, Boston Celtics guard Derrick White has been one of the first names thrown around.

Just weeks before the Olympics begin, Team USA has lost a pair of star forwards. Before the update on Leonard, Kevin Durant was sidelined during training camp due to a calf injury.

Leonard's injury woes go back to the end of last season. He was forced to miss the final eight games of the Clippers' regular season schedule before making a brief return in the playoffs. After playing just two games against the Dallas Mavericks, Leonard would be sidelined again.

Now down two players, the United States has to prepare for a tough matchup against Team Canada Wednesday night. Luckily for them, the roster is still loaded with star-level NBA talent.

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Kawhi Leonard's withdraw doesn't line up with Ty Lue's latest comments

Seeing that many fans and analysts didn't expect Kawhi Leonard to fully participate in the Olympics, his withdrawal isn't a complete shock. However, the move is somewhat head-scratching after his coach's recent comments.

Team USA's head coach is Steve Kerr, but LA Clippers coach Ty Lue is one of his assistants. Following Tuesday's action of training camp, he told Sportskeeda's Mark Medina that Leonard is feeling good and wouldn't have any minutes restrictions.

"No minutes [restriction]," Lue said about Leonard. "He feels good. The opportunity feels good."

"It's going to be good for him going into the season and coming and starting the season with that 5-on-5 experience and 5-on-5 conditioning. It can be good for him. I'm happy that he's here, and I'm happy that he's feeling good."

Things obviously could have changed in the last 24 hours, but still comes off as shocking given Lue's glowing comments. Nonetheless, Leonard's Olympic experience comes to an end before the real action even begins.

Kawhi Leonard might also be opting to withdraw out of precaution. With next season right around the corner, he might have the long game in mind. Following Paul George's departure in free agency, the Clippers are going to need a fully healthy Leonard in 2025.