
The Los Angeles Clippers lost Kawhi Leonard in Saturday’s unexpected defeat to the Sacramento Kings. The seven-time All-Star was forced to leave the game in the fourth quarter due to an ankle injury. Leonard limped to the locker room, where he was checked by the team’s medical staff. The Clippers later announced that the 6-foot-6 small forward had been ruled out for the remainder of the game.
The Clippers are back in action on Monday against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs. L.A. will be looking to make amends after Saturday’s disappointing loss to Sacramento. The Clippers, however, may need to do so without Leonard's services.
Leonard is in the midst of a big year for the Clippers. He’s played 53 games thus far, averaging a career-high 28.3 points on 50.1% shooting, 6.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.0 steals in 32.3 minutes per contest. The two-time Defensive Player of the Year is also knocking down a career-best 2.6 triples on a 37.8% clip.
The Clippers have submitted their injury report for Monday’s home matchup against the Spurs. The team announced that Leonard is officially listed as doubtful to play with a left ankle sprain.
Considering how cautious the Clippers have been with Leonard’s health, the fact that he has not been ruled out completely can be considered a positive sign. The doubtful tag likely means that he won’t play against the Spurs, but it appears that the 34-year-old has dodged a significant injury.
If Leonard sits out, Bennedict Mathurin will likely take on a bigger role against San Antonio.
After the Spurs on Monday, the Clippers have a back-to-back set coming up on Wednesday and Thursday. Both games will be on the road against the New Orleans Pelicans.
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