We haven’t seen Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard on an NBA court since the 2021 playoffs, but the veteran is progressing well in his recovery from the torn ACL in his right knee that he suffered in the second round against the Utah Jazz. Leonard underwent surgery on the knee last July.
Though no timeline has been provided in regards to his return, Leonard hasn’t been facing restrictions regarding his recovery this month, according to The Athletic. Additionally, Leonard is also doing well mentally, which is always important following a serious injury.
After the 2022 NBA Draft, Clippers president Lawrence Frank said that Leonard isn’t yet participating in five-on-five play, but he confirmed that the multi-faceted forward is indeed progressing well.
“Yeah, he continues to do great,” Frank said of Leonard. “He’s maniacal in his work ethic. It’s fun to see. I’m glad we can afford the light bill because he’s putting in the hours. But yeah, he’s doing great, and he continues to progress, and it’s great seeing him on the court.”
Though no timetable has been provided for his return, the goal is certainly to have Leonard out on the court for the start of the ’22-23 season. The Clippers missed the playoffs for the first time since 2018 last season, but that was largely due to injury issues, as the team’s two biggest stars barely played. Leonard missed the whole season, and Paul George was limited to just 31 games due to an elbow injury. If both of those guys are back and healthy, the Clippers should again be a legitimate contender in the Western Conference next season.
Courtesy: CBS Sports
